NunuFund

NUNU Fund is tackling poverty and limited access to education in southern Uganda through an inclusive business model that empowers subsistence bean farmers and supports their communities. Approximately 80% of farmers in southern Uganda rely on cultivating beans on small plots of land. They face a significant hurdle: market oversaturation during biannual harvests. This drives down prices, forcing farmers to sell their beans at unfavorable rates to middlemen just to meet their immediate financial needs. This precarious situation directly impacts children's education, as families often cannot afford consistent school attendance.

NUNU Fund addresses these challenges with a multi-pronged approach:

• NUNU Fund purchases dry beans directly from farmers at fair prices. They then strategically store the beans and sell them when market prices are higher. 40% of the increased proceeds are returned to the farmers.

•  Farmers don't receive their profit share in cash. Instead, it's credited to their digital accounts within the NUNU Fund system. The primary use of these funds is to pay school fees for their children, ensuring consistent access to education. Any remaining funds are available for other household needs.

• NUNU Fund operates community shops that offer essential goods at cost-saving prices. Farmers can use the balance in their digital accounts to purchase items here. 20% of the profits from these shops are reinvested into education and community development.

This innovative model provides economic opportunities for farmers, increases disposable income for families, and creates a sustainable cycle of impact. Children who previously attended school only a few months a year can now attend all year round. By integrating education financing with economic empowerment, NUNU Fund offers a holistic, self-sustaining solution that uplifts entire communities and fosters long-term resilience.