Tag: Matching Grants

CQI CEO Michael Sheridan Highlights Strong Q1 2026 Momentum

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai — Qahwa World

Coffee Quality Institute (CQI) CEO Michael Sheridan has shared an inspiring update with the global coffee community, showcasing a highly active and productive first quarter of 2026 focused on education, innovation, and international outreach.

In his message, Sheridan noted: “It is hard to believe March is almost over. The first quarter of the year has gone by in a flash, partly because we have been so busy improving and expanding our offerings to better serve you and advance our mission.”

You may read: Michael Sheridan in an Exclusive Interview with Qahwa World

  • Post-Harvest Processing Program Expands Globally

A key highlight is the bi-annual Post-Harvest Processing Expert course, now training 25 outstanding coffee professionals from around the world. CQI’s PHP educators have already delivered content in 14 countries this year, with more activities planned.

The organization is also completing a major review and update of its professional course curriculum with input from seasoned instructors while developing new content to cover a wider range of topics.
New Initiatives Launched in Q1

You may like: Coffee Quality Institute CEO Delivers Key Message to Global Coffee Community

  • CQI introduced two significant programs this quarter:

The CQI Insider program, offering dedicated members exclusive access to expert insights and networking.

The Matching Grant program is designed to double the impact of project investments through partnership funding.

Sheridan also highlighted recent in-person engagements with the community in Dubai, Addis Ababa, and Tampa.

  • Ambitious Plans Ahead

The momentum continues into the rest of 2026, with two new initiatives scheduled for rollout in Q2 and Q3, plus upcoming travels to San Diego, Bangkok, Lima, Brussels, and other destinations.
“I look forward to seeing you!” Sheridan concluded.

Read Also:Coffee Quality Institute Launches New CQI Insider Membership Program

  • Advancing Coffee Quality Worldwide

These developments reinforce CQI’s mission to elevate coffee quality and support producers through world-class education and impactful partnerships. Under Michael Sheridan’s leadership, the institute continues to strengthen its role as a global leader in coffee processing knowledge and professional development.

The full message is available to CQI community members, with more details on courses and programs on the official CQI website.

Read this story also: Coffee Quality Institute Announces 2026 Global Coffee Fund Details

Coffee Quality Institute Announces 2026 Global Coffee Fund Details

Posted on by Qahwa World

Addis Ababa – Qahwa World

Coffee Quality Institute (CQI) announced the details of its 2026 Global Coffee Fund (the Fund) program at the African Fine Coffee Association Conference and Exhibition. The Fund was developed to expand access to coffee quality education and advance CQI’s mission.

“CQI knows that the coffee sector is facing extraordinary challenges, and the Global Coffee Fund is one way we are working to address them,” said Michael Sheridan, chief executive officer of Coffee Quality Institute. “At a time when the public sector is disinvesting in coffee communities, CQI is tripling our commitment to the Global Coffee Fund and inviting the industry to co-invest. Together we can mobilize $500,000 to benefit coffee communities in 2026. I can’t think of a better way to mark our 30th anniversary.”

The Global Coffee Fund will invest in coffee quality through support to two distinct programs.

  • Project Awards

CQI will continue its existing successful grant program in 2026 and commit up to $100,000 to fund projects that enhance access to coffee education and promote the development of educators in areas that lack sufficient local representation.

  • Matching Grants

This year CQI is launching a Matching Grant for co-investment with partners whose own work aligns with CQI’s mission and values. CQI will provide a dollar-for-dollar match for $200,000 of external investment in qualifying projects with a goal of generating $400,000 in new commitments in 2026.

“I am very excited about the expansion of the Global Coffee Fund for 2026. The addition of the Matching Grant program will enable CQI to leverage and expand our global partnerships and network of coffee experts to increase impact at the producer level,” stated T.J. Ryan, managing director of programs at CQI. “More than just a financial match, the fund will seek partners with whom we have shared objectives to build a more resilient coffee sector.”

  • Further information regarding the Fund and application materials are available on the Coffee Quality Institute’s website. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.About Coffee Quality Institute

    CQI is a non-profit that works globally to improve the quality of coffee and the lives of the people who produce it. For thirty years, CQI has trained people who produce and process coffee in more than thirty coffee-growing countries around the world.