Fairtrade Chesham has become a member of Shared Interest, which was set up in 1990 to provide financial services and business support to make livelihoods and living standards better for people in some of the most disadvantaged communities in the world, as they trade their way out of poverty.

Instead of sitting in a bank gaining very little interest, a portion of our savings raised through community events and activities is now going to be available for Fairtrade businesses in 47 different countries to borrow. The loans typically fund seeds, plants, materials, crops, equipment or finished goods. Once the crops or crafts are sold, the Fairtrade organisation repays the loan (with a fair rate of interest). The funds are then recycled and lent out again.

COULD YOU INVEST IN A FAIRER WORLD?

Both groups and individuals can have a Shared Interest account, and you can start investing at just £100. Your ethical investment won’t make you rich, but it will enrich the lives of others. In 2024, Shared Interest helped support over 400,000 producers and craftspeople to trade and earn a living.

To find out more, visit the Shared Interest web site.