Tag: Specialty Coffee Association

World Coffee Championship Announces the Names of the Qualifiers for the Championship Final in Chicago

Posted on by Qahwa World

Chicago – QW : – Continuing the thrilling start to the ongoing World Coffee Championship held during the Specialty Coffee Expo Chicago 2024, the Specialty Coffee Association has announced the names of the qualifiers for the championship final, totaling 6 individuals representing Japan, France, Indonesia, Czech Republic, Austria, and Australia.

The Specialty Coffee Association stated in a press release that on Day 2 of the World Coffee Championship, following a fierce competition where 12 competitors took the stage in the semi-final this morning, we announce and congratulate the six qualifiers for the championship final, who will compete for the title today, Sunday, April 14, starting at 8:30 AM Central Time in the United States.

Without a specific order, the association announced the names of the six qualifiers and the countries they represent:

Wataru Iidaka, Japan

Charity Cheung, France

Ryan Wibawa, Indonesia

Jackie Tran, Czech Republic

Martin Wölfl, Austria

Tom Hutchins, Australia

The association invites the audience to join and follow the global event, saying: Join us to watch the final stage this evening. You can follow the action up close at the Specialty Coffee Expo in Chicago or watch the live stream on chicago.wcc.coffee to witness every exciting moment. Don’t miss out on the excitement and thrill amidst the competition of the outstanding players vying for the World Coffee Championship title!”

 

World Coffee Championship Announces Semi-Finalists in Chicago

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In an exciting start to the ongoing World Brewers Cup Championship at the Specialty Coffee Expo Chicago 2024, the Specialty Coffee Association has announced the names of the qualifiers for the semi-final, totaling 12 individuals representing the United Arab Emirates, Australia, Sweden, Romania, South Korea, Taiwan, the Czech Republic, France, Austria, the United Kingdom, Indonesia, and Japan.

The association stated, “The World Brewers Cup Championship kicked off with enthusiasm in Chicago, as 41 talented competitors from around the world showcased their coffee brewing skills on the global stage. Amidst the aroma of freshly ground beans and the hum of espresso machines, the competition was fierce, but the spirit of sportsmanship filled the air.”

The association added, “After an exhilarating first day of competition, the following skilled competitors emerged victorious and will advance to the semi-final round:

  • Tom Hutchins from Australia
  • Patrik Rolf proudly representing Sweden
  • Alex Niculae representing Romania
  • Dongmin Kim from South Korea
  • Erik Liao showcasing skills from Taiwan
  • Frederick Bejo representing the United Arab Emirates
  • Jackie Tran representing the Czech Republic
  • Charity Cheung bringing French elegance to the table
  • Martin Wölfl representing Austria
  • Luca Croce displaying expertise from the United Kingdom
  • Ryan Wibawa representing Indonesia
  • Wataru Iidaka from Japan.

They have captivated audiences with their unique brewing techniques and dedication to the craft.”

“The stage is set for an exciting Semi-Final round, where they will face new challenges and push the boundaries of excellence in the world of coffee even further,” the association stated.

The association invited the public to join and follow the global event, saying, “Join us to watch the Semi-Final round this evening starting at 1:38 PM Central Time. You can witness the action firsthand at the Specialty Coffee Expo in Chicago or tune in to the live stream at chicago.wcc.coffee to catch every thrilling moment. Don’t miss out on the excitement as the world’s finest brewers compete for the World Brewers Cup Championship title!”

 

Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Releases 2023 Annual Report

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In a year marked by remarkable progress and innovation, the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) unveils its highly anticipated 2023 Annual Report. Led by CEO Yannis Apostolopoulos, the SCA’s endeavors have propelled the global specialty coffee industry forward, cementing its commitment to enhancing sustainability, fostering community engagement, and delivering unparalleled service.

Global Impact through Sustainability

Central to the SCA’s mission is its Sustainable Coffee Agenda, a framework aimed at promoting equitable value distribution throughout the coffee supply chain. In 2023, the SCA reached two significant milestones in this regard. Firstly, it formally introduced the Sustainable Coffee Agenda and its theory of change, solidifying its dedication to sustainable practices. Secondly, the SCA launched the Coffee Value Assessment, a groundbreaking tool designed to facilitate transparent discussions about value distribution. With a focus on community integration, the SCA plans to embed these initiatives across all programs, fostering a culture of sustainability within the industry.

Expanding Horizons and Local Engagement

Expanding its global footprint, the SCA hosted events beyond traditional hubs, including Latin America and the Asia Pacific region. Through initiatives like the World of Coffee Panama 2026 and World of Coffee Busan 2024, the SCA forged connections within local communities, enriching experiences for coffee enthusiasts worldwide. Furthermore, the association revamped its membership model and enhanced support for chapters and guilds, ensuring greater accessibility and relevance within local coffee communities.

Empowering Growth and Education

With a focus on professional development, the SCA expanded its educational offerings, catering to diverse needs within the industry. Notably, efforts were made to address information gaps among coffee producers, supported by the Coffee Value Assessment’s insights. By investing in accessible education across multiple platforms and languages, the SCA continues to empower individuals and drive innovation within the specialty coffee sector.

Strengthening Infrastructure and Financial Resilience

Amidst challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the SCA navigated financial hurdles, achieving a remarkable turnaround in 2023. From a significant negative equity of -US$1.8M, the association successfully built an equity of US$12.5M, ensuring robust financial reserves for the future. This achievement underscores the SCA’s commitment to financial sustainability and resilience in the face of uncertainty.

Looking Ahead

As the SCA embarks on its journey into 2024, CEO Yannis Apostolopoulos expresses optimism for the future. With ongoing initiatives such as the rollout of the new membership model and continued research endeavors, the SCA remains steadfast in its mission to elevate the specialty coffee experience worldwide. As stakeholders anticipate upcoming events in Chicago, Busan, and Copenhagen, excitement brews for the innovative strides ahead in the world of specialty coffee.

The release of the 2023 Annual Report marks a pivotal moment in the SCA’s journey, reaffirming its dedication to excellence and progress within the global coffee community.

To read the report, click here

 

SCA: Specialty Coffee Expo Chicago 2024 Will Be the Largest Ever

Posted on by Qahwa World

The Specialty Coffee Association has announced that the Specialty Coffee Expo Chicago 2024, which will be held from April 12 to April 14, 2024, will be the largest ever in the history of the expo.

In a statement received by “Coffee World”, the association said that with the increasing anticipation for the Specialty Coffee Expo Chicago 2024, enthusiasts and professionals in the industry alike are preparing for what promises to be the biggest and most impactful event in the world of coffee.

The association expects the Specialty Coffee Expo Chicago 2024 to break all records and redefine the landscape of the specialty coffee industry, with over 590 exhibitors confirmed and an estimated 16,000 visitors expected to attend the event.

The association pointed out that the Specialty Coffee Expo Chicago 2024 is not just a gathering; it is a convergence of minds dedicated to shaping the future of the coffee sector.

The association emphasized that the global coffee market is experiencing unprecedented growth, with the market expected to exceed $182.63 billion by 2030, noting in this regard that the Specialty Coffee Expo Chicago 2024 is a crucial platform for industry players to explore expansion opportunities and foster innovation.

The association explained that one of the highlights of the Specialty Coffee Expo Chicago 2024 lies in the opportunity to network with a diverse community of professionals representing every aspect of the coffee value chain. With participants from over 75 countries, including key decision-makers and influencers, the expo provides an unparalleled environment for collaboration and knowledge exchange.

During the Specialty Coffee Expo Chicago 2024, a variety of events and activities will be offered, including the Specialty Coffee Association Lecture Series, SCA Workshop Series, Green Coffee Connect, Retail Buyers Lounge, Cupping Exchange, Scientific Poster Sessions, Roaster Village, World Coffee Championships, and other exciting events and activities.

The schedule of the Specialty Coffee Expo Chicago 2024 spans three days, providing participants with ample opportunities to immerse themselves in the world of specialty coffee and take full advantage of everything the expo has to offer. From the opening event on Friday morning to the closing activities on Sunday afternoon, the expo promises to be an unforgettable experience for all who attend.

Specialty Coffee Expo 2024 Introduces Exciting New Features for April Show

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Dubai, April 5, 2024 (qw) – This year’s Specialty Coffee Expo is geared up to showcase its commitment to sustainability amidst mounting pressure on companies to embrace eco-friendly practices. Collaborating with industry leaders like Caravela Coffee, Pacific Foods Barista Series, and Barista Attitude, the expo is unveiling innovative strategies to offset its environmental footprint.

Carrie Gibson, Events Director at Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), announces, “We’re launching the ‘Sustainable Expo’ initiative, channeling financial aid to Latin American coffee farmers for planting native trees. This green endeavor aims to improve soil health, mitigate erosion, and sequester carbon.”

Through agroforestry systems, the expo plans to offset 1600 to 2000 metric tons of CO2 emissions by planting 6000 native trees, benefitting over 150 coffee farms across several countries. In addition to its ‘Sustainable Expo,’ scheduled for April 12-14 in Chicago, the expo is designed to cater to the global coffee community’s diverse needs.

Gibson emphasizes, “Our expo offers not just a vibrant atmosphere but also a platform for business growth and professional development. With features like the Roaster Village and the Best New Product competition, attendees can expect a unique experience tailored to their preferences.”

Introducing two new features, Green Coffee Connect and Retail Buyers Lounge, the expo aims to foster inclusive business relationships and provide a space for retail professionals to network and engage in meaningful discussions.

Furthermore, the expo offers extensive educational opportunities, including lectures and workshops, addressing critical industry topics. Gibson adds, “Education is paramount for success in this industry, and our workshops provide in-depth insights into specific subjects.”

With substantial growth anticipated, the expo remains committed to upholding SCA’s values and mission, ensuring a rewarding experience for every participant.

Gibson, reflecting on her role, expresses pride in contributing to the expo’s success and sustainability initiatives. She concludes, “Each year, seeing the expo come together is incredibly fulfilling. It’s a testament to the collaborative efforts of our dedicated team and the vibrant coffee community we serve.”

Specialty Coffee Association Unveils Groundbreaking Membership Model in 2024

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In a bold move to match the exponential growth of the specialty coffee industry, the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) is set to launch its most ambitious membership overhaul in decades this year. Dubbed as a game-changer, the new model promises to redefine connectivity, accessibility, and value within the global coffee community.

Under the revamped structure, members can anticipate a tailored experience like never before. The SCA’s innovative platform will offer personalized pathways, catering to the unique needs of each individual or company. Whether it’s accessing cutting-edge research, educational resources, or forging connections with like-minded professionals, the new membership promises to elevate the coffee experience.

Embracing inclusivity, the SCA introduces two distinct membership tiers. The associate membership, a complimentary offering, opens doors for enthusiasts eager to immerse themselves in SCA events, education, and competitions. Meanwhile, the professional membership, priced at an accessible $100, offers enhanced benefits including voting eligibility and promotional advantages.

Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the SCA, emphasizes the organization’s commitment to fostering a thriving, sustainable, and equitable coffee ecosystem. “It’s not just about expansion; it’s about evolution. We envision a future where every coffee enthusiast, from bean to cup, can access the tools, research, and resources to enhance their craft,” Apostolopoulos stated.

Scheduled for release later this year, the SCA’s groundbreaking model promises to reshape the landscape of specialty coffee. For current members seeking clarification or newcomers eager to join the movement, inquiries are encouraged to reach out. Get ready to savor a new era of coffee culture with the Specialty Coffee Association.

Specialty Coffee Association Unveils Finalists for the 2024 Sustainability Awards

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Dubai, 02 March 2024(QW) – The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) is thrilled to announce the finalists for the highly anticipated 2024 Sustainability Awards.

These awards recognize outstanding achievements in sustainability within the coffee industry and serve as a testament to the dedication of for-profit and non-profit companies that exemplify innovation, collaboration, and positive impact throughout the entire coffee value chain.

The 2024 Sustainability Awards shine a spotlight on those who have not only addressed the significant challenges facing the specialty coffee sector, such as climate change and gender inequality, but have also fostered collaboration across geographies, cultures, and value chain roles. These exemplary companies, organizations, projects, and individuals generously share the lessons they’ve learned, contributing to the advancement of the entire coffee sector.

A meticulous selection process led by a committee comprising SCA staff has resulted in the identification of outstanding finalists in each award category. These finalists have been chosen from a pool of submissions that exceeded all expectations. To ensure impartiality and excellence, previous winners of SCA Sustainability Awards will play a pivotal role in selecting the ultimate winner in each category.

Winners of the 2024 Sustainability Awards will be officially announced on SCA channels in late March 2024. Furthermore, these remarkable achievers will be formally recognized at the upcoming Specialty Coffee Expo in April and the World of Coffee event in Copenhagen this June.

The 2024 Sustainability Awards owe their success to the generous support of TricorBraun Flex, exemplifying a shared commitment to advancing sustainable practices within the coffee industry.

2024 Sustainability Award Finalists:

FOR-PROFIT

  1. REBUILD WOMENS HOPE COOPERATIVE
  2. Black Baza Coffee Co.
  3. Fazenda Três Meninas
  4. Neighbors & Crops
  5. Sancoffee
  6. Amavida Coffee and Trading Company

NON-PROFIT

  1. International Women’s Coffee Alliance (IWCA)
  2. Root Capital
  3. Blockchain Coffee Beans
  4. World Coffee Research
  5. TechnoServe
  6. Community-Led Development Incubator Program by The Chain Collaborative

The Specialty Coffee Association looks forward to revealing the winners and celebrating the industry’s commitment to sustainability. For further updates and information, stay tuned to SCA channels and join us in recognizing these exemplary contributors to the world of coffee.

Fatima Abdul Khabeer: Inspirational Journey of a Yemeni Woman from Rural Taiz in Coffee Farming and Production

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Dubai, January 27, 2024 (QW): In the rugged terrains of Yemen, where societal constraints often hinder women from pursuing entrepreneurial endeavors, a story of flexibility, wisdom, and determination has emerged. This is the inspirational journey of Fatima AbdulKhabeer, a Yemeni woman hailing from highly conservative rural areas, who defied social norms and founded a pioneering women’s agricultural association in the famous Sabr Mountain in Taiz Province, Yemen.

Fatima Abdul Khabeer’s remarkable journey garnered significant attention at the World of Coffee Dubai 2024, where she shared her journey from the inception of the association to its accomplishments up to the present.

Foundation Years   

In 2001, the “Talouq Feminine Association” was established, and over the years, the association grew to include 70 members engaged in coffee cultivation and production.

The association successfully implemented various projects, including a post-harvest coffee technology project funded by the French Embassy, amounting to approximately 250,000 USD. Additionally, they constructed 45 rainwater harvesting tanks and provided specialized training for over 400 farmers.

In 2009, Fatima Abdul Khabeer traveled to Germany, a journey that facilitated connections with foreign companies and marked a qualitative leap in understanding the importance of coffee quality, flavors, tasting techniques, and different aromas.

In 2010, she participated in the Second International Coffee Conference in Yemen, showcasing Talouq Valley’s coffee products and establishing partnerships, notably with “Mokha 1450,” a pivotal collaboration that began in 2013.

In 2014, Fatima embarked on a second journey to Ethiopia with the aim of exchanging experiences with Ethiopian coffee farmers and specialized associations.

Things were progressing well until 2015 when a dramatic shift occurred. Political conflicts intensified in Yemen, escalating into a war, bringing work to a complete halt. However, Fatima’s journey did not stop. Since 2017, she has led trips and visits to share experiences and transfer knowledge to farmers from various regions.

In 2022, the impact of climate change on farms became noticeable, prompting the association to monitor and track changes in coffee production caused by climate variations.

In 2023, the association received training from theSpecialty Coffee Association, initiating the peeling and cleaning operations for farmers from different regions with the goal of supporting exports.

At the Dubai Coffee World Exhibition 2024, Fatima AbdulKhabeer highlighted the current challenges facing Yemeni coffee farmers, including armed conflicts, climate change impacts, limited funding and support for farmers’ needs, export and marketing difficulties, and unfair competition from local traders.

She also outlined the stages of obtaining specialty coffee in Yemen:

  1. Pre-Harvest: Monitoring fruits in farms, protecting them from pests and nutritional deficiencies.
  2. Harvest: Careful selection and harvesting of ripe coffee beans.
  3. Drying: Sun-drying coffee beans on beds while controlling temperature and humidity to maintain quality.
  4. Storage: Appropriate storage conditions to preserve flavors and aromas, avoiding excessive heat, moisture, and odors.

Fatima AbdulKhabeer proudly stopped at some success stations in her career, as in 2017 she achieved third place in UAE Ibrik Championship , and in 2017 she achieved first place in the same tournament and fourth place in 2018.

Fatima AbdulKhabeer concluded her presentation by providing an overview of the current status of specialty coffee in Yemen, emphasizing that Yemen lacks sufficient expertise in preparing specialty coffee. Nevertheless, some regions have initiated serious efforts by training farmers, purchasing their crops, and selling them to external companies specializing in coffee.

“Stronghold” Named Official Production Sponsor for the 2024-2027 World Coffee Roasting Championship

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The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) proudly announces the selection of “Stronghold” as the Official Production Roaster Sponsor for the 2024-2027 World Coffee Roasting Championship (WCRC), providing the Stronghold SX9 machine for the 2024 WCRC. The production roaster is a crucial component of WCRC equipment, utilized by national champions in their practice and production roasting for both single-origin coffees and blends.

The WCRC is the annual event of the World Coffee Championship (WCC) that recognizes excellence in coffee roasting, evaluating competitors based on their coffee assessment, preparation, blending, and overall skills in practice, sample, and production roasts. The competition has experienced significant growth in recent years, with 130 competitors participating in the eight editions since its inception in 2013.

The World Coffee Championships (WCC) thrive thanks to the support and dedication of a diverse array of organizations and individuals. Qualified sponsors, the manufacturers providing the equipment used by competitors on stage, are integral to this support. In addition to supporting broader SCA programming, qualified sponsors sign multi-year agreements to foster the strategic growth of the competitions and dedicate time and resources to ensure that every world championship competitor uses the same high-quality equipment.

“Stronghold is a fantastic partner, and we are delighted to welcome them as the official production roaster for the 2024-2027 World Coffee Roasting Championships as we see this competition grow,” said Yannis Apostolopoulos, SCA Chief Executive Officer. “Stronghold has been an excellent partner in several other SCA initiatives and events of the past few years, and we couldn’t be more delighted to enter this long-term partnership with them.”

“At Stronghold, we are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of roasting technology, with our environmental and sustainability goals in mind,” said Jason Woo, Stronghold Chief Executive Officer. “As we usher in the era of all-electric commercial roasting, we are thrilled that our efforts have been acknowledged, being selected as the official production equipment for the prestigious World Coffee Roasting Championship. This marks a significant step forward for us, challenging the industry norm and bringing an economically and environmentally sustainable future to the global stage.”

Stronghold will support the World Coffee Roasting Championship as the official production roaster sponsor, starting with the 2024 event hosted at World of Coffee Copenhagen, Denmark, in June. We look forward to an exciting partnership over the coming years.

CEO of Specialty Coffee Association, Yannis Apostolopoulos, Reveals Vision for 2024

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Yannis Apostolopoulos, the CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), reaffirms the association’s steadfast commitment to enhancing the world of coffee during the current year, 2024.

In an interview with the “Global Coffee Market Report,” Yannis Apostolopoulos, the CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association, highlighted the achievements of the association in 2023, stating, “Considering the accomplishments of 2023, a pivotal year for the Specialty Coffee Association, the introduction of the Coffee Value Assessment (CVA) program was the standout achievement. CVA represents a groundbreaking shift in discovering and appreciating the value of coffee, the culmination of years of dedicated work and research.”

He emphasized that the program marks a significant development in the evaluation system of the SCA, reflecting advancements in sensory science over two decades. CVA is poised to provide the industry and trade with a high-resolution portrayal of coffee, capturing both intrinsic and extrinsic attributes that contribute to the enhanced value of each type of coffee in the market.

Regarding his vision for 2024 and beyond, Yannis Apostolopoulos, the CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association, confirmed the association’s commitment to continuous investment in the development of the Coffee Value Assessment system. The primary focus is on providing education and access to information across the entire value chain.

As a trade association, Apostolopoulos stated that their strategic goal includes expanding the specialty coffee market, aiming to achieve this through direct engagement with consumers. He affirmed that additional investments will be directed towards consumer activation initiatives to stimulate market growth.

Recognizing the tangible challenges faced by the coffee industry, Apostolopoulos acknowledged the marathon-like nature of the journey toward making coffee better, emphasizing the ongoing commitment of both the industry and the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA).

He stressed that sustainability in coffee production remains a key issue, with a continued focus on value distribution. The goal is to facilitate meaningful discussions about risks and rewards across the entire value chain. The regulatory changes observed in 2023 are expected to have a lasting impact on trade dynamics.

In conclusion, Apostolopoulos called for the establishment of a clear framework by industry stakeholders and regulators to address consumer labeling concerns, especially regarding beverages that do not contain coffee beans. This comprehensive approach aims to promote transparent discussions and contribute to the continuous evolution of the coffee industry.

Specialty Coffee Association Opens Global Nominations for the 2024 Sustainability Awards

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Prepare for a groundbreaking moment in the coffee industry as the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) announces the commencement of nominations for the highly esteemed 2024 Sustainability Awards. This distinguished recognition serves as a guiding light, spotlighting the outstanding contributions of both for-profit and non-profit organizations in crafting a sustainable trajectory for the coffee sector.

Extended Submission Deadline: January 31, 2024

The 2024 Sustainability Awards recognize for-profit and non-profit organizations that advance sustainability in the coffee sector while inspiring others to initiate similar endeavors.

Since 2004, the SCA has recognized outstanding work in the field of sustainability with its annual Sustainability Awards. The companies, organizations, projects, and people receiving these awards have not only dedicated themselves to confronting the enormous challenges facing the specialty coffee industry—from climate change to gender inequality—but also to collaborating across geographies, cultures, and value chain roles, and to sharing the lessons they have learned for the benefit of the entire coffee sector.

This year’s 2024 Sustainability Award Winners will be announced in 2024.

Winners will be recognized for their achievement at the SCA Expo in Chicago, USA, from April 12-14, 2024, and at World of Coffee Europe in Copenhagen, Denmark from June 27-29, 2024.

The 2024 Sustainability Awards are generously brought to you by TricorBraun Flex.

We are now accepting Nominations for the 2024 Sustainability Awards. The deadline to submit an application is January 31, 2024.

Categories:

FOR-PROFIT:

This award recognizes the role that for-profit companies play in the sustainability of the coffee sector. Please note that this award is for businesses that have been operating for at least three years. Products, projects, and ideas do not qualify for the award.

Judging Criteria:

Exceptional approach. For-profit organizations will pursue equity, prioritize mutual benefits, and address intertwined social, economic, and environmental challenges facing coffee value chains.
Adaptability. Business practices will be relevant to companies of various sizes and across diverse cultures and geographies.
Impact. Businesses will clearly articulate how their models have achieved measurable results.
Equitable Value Distribution. The SCA uses the Sustainability Awards to advance its sustainability agenda by shaping mindsets about how value is created, measured, and distributed in coffee value chains and within firms. For-profit organizations will be evaluated on their efforts towards distributing value more equitably.
For this question, please bear in mind that the SCA does not use “value” to solely refer to money, but rather to a combination of different types of reward in relation to the cost or investment made.

“Equitable distribution” refers to how the total value (monetary and non-monetary) created by all actors in the coffee system is distributed among them. Equitable distribution does not result in everyone receiving the same reward, but rather the right reward for the value they add, the risks they take, and the costs they bear.

Eligibility and Process:

This annual award is open to SCA members. Applications must be submitted by, or on behalf of, a business in operation for a minimum of three years. An individual may submit applications for multiple businesses.

For 2024, there will be two rounds of review: first, a team of SCA staff will review all submissions that meet the requirements listed in the form below, considering a wide range of applicationsfrom across the specialty coffee industry.

A second round of applicants will be selected as finalists and may be asked to provide additional information to a panel of judges comprised of previous SCA Sustainability Award Winners.

Prize:

SCA Sustainability Award Winner plaque
SCA Sustainability Award Winner logo for promotional use
Recognition on sca.coffee, in SCA News article and in press release
One complimentary three-day pass to the 2024 Specialty Coffee Expo in Chicago, USA, and/or one complimentary three-day pass to the 2024 World of Coffee Europe in Copenhagen, Denmark
Sustainability Awards Reception in the SCA Community Lounge at Expo and World of Coffee events (specific times to be determined)
Option to design and deliver a Lecture at either the Expo or the World of Coffee event
A US $1,500 travel stipend to attend the 2024 Expo and/or World of Coffee Europe events events

NON-PROFIT:

This award celebrates a non-profit organization (or one of its projects) that advances the coffee sector’s pursuit of sustainability. Please note that this award is only for organizations/projects that have been operating for at least three years. Products, companies, business models, and ideas do not qualify for the award.

Judging Criteria:

Exceptional approach. Non-profit organizations will pursue equity, prioritize mutual benefits, and address intertwined social, economic, and environmental challenges facing coffee value chains.
Adaptability.

Organization practices will be relevant to organizations of various sizes and across diverse cultures and geographies.
Impact.

Organizations will clearly articulate how their models have achieved measurable results.

Equitable Value Distribution. The SCA uses the Sustainability Awards to advance its sustainability agenda by shaping mind

sets about how value is created, measured, and distributed in coffee value chains and within firms. For-profit organizations will be evaluated on their efforts towards distributing value more equitably.

For this question, please bear in mind that the SCA does not use “value” to solely refer to money, but rather to a combination of different types of reward in relation to the cost or investment made.

“Equitable distribution” refers to how the total value (monetary and non-monetary) created by all actors in the coffee system is distributed among them. Equitable distribution does not result in everyone receiving the same reward, but rather the right reward for the value they add, the risks they take, and the costs they bear.

Eligibility and Process:

This annual award is open to SCA members. Applications must be submitted by, or on behalf of, an organization or project in operation for a minimum of three years. An individual may submit applications for multiple organizations/projects.

For 2024, there will be two rounds of review: first, a team of SCA staff will review all submissions that meet the requirements listed in the form below, considering a wide range of applications from across the specialty coffee industry.

A second round of applicants will be selected as finalists and may be asked to provide additional information to a panel of judges comprised of previous SCA Sustainability Award Winners.

Prize:

SCA Sustainability Award Winner plaque
SCA Sustainability Award Winner logo for promotional use
Recognition on sca.coffee, in SCA News article and in press release
One complimentary three-day pass to the 2024 Specialty Coffee Expo in Chicago, USA, and/or one complimentary three-day pass to the 2024 World of Coffee Europe in Copenhagen, Denmark
Sustainability Awards Reception in the SCA Community Lounge at Expo and World of Coffee events (specific times to be determined)
Option to design and deliver a Lecture at either the Expo or the World of Coffee event
A US $1,500 travel stipend to attend the 2024 Expo and/or World of Coffee Europe events

A note on the Individual Award:

The SCA is reevaluating how to best identify and celebrate individuals from across the value chain who have contributed to advancing sustainability in the coffee industry and will pause the Individual Award until further notice.

If you have any questions on how to complete your submission, please contact: [email protected]