Rockefeller Foundation Commits Over $5.4 Million to Bolster Brazil's Food Systems at COP30

Rockefeller Foundation Announces Major Investment at COP30

Belém, Brazil – The Rockefeller Foundation announced a commitment of over $5.4 million in funding during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil, on November 12, 2025. This substantial investment is aimed at strengthening Brazil-led food systems, with a particular focus on supporting small and mid-size farmers and enhancing school meal programs across the nation.

The announcement was made during COP30, which is taking place in Belém from November 10 to 21, 2025. The Foundation's initiative underscores the critical role of sustainable and resilient food systems in addressing climate change and improving human well-being.

Focus on Regenerative Agriculture and School Meals

The funding will be directed towards advancing regenerative agriculture solutions and ensuring the provision of nourishing, locally-sourced food to children through school meals. The Rockefeller Foundation plans to support 12 organizations, including Instituto Comida do Amanhã, Instituto Clima e Sociedade (ICS), and Fundacion Ambition Loop, among others. These partnerships aim to mobilize finance for small and mid-size farmers integrated into school meal programs, offer technical support, and facilitate cross-country learning.

Elizabeth Yee, Executive Vice President of The Rockefeller Foundation, highlighted the importance of this approach, stating, 'Supporting farmers and unlocking finance is foundational to our big bet on regenerative school meals – one of the world's most powerful tools for improving children's lives, building local economies, and sustaining the planet.' Brazil's existing school meal program is recognized globally as a benchmark for its effectiveness.

Broader Commitment to Food Systems Transformation

This $5.4 million investment is part of a larger commitment by The Rockefeller Foundation, which has pledged over $220 million towards food systems transformation initiatives globally. Additionally, the Foundation has committed $100 million to reach 100 million children worldwide with more nutritious, locally grown, and regeneratively-sourced foods by 2030, building on initial work in Brazil and Kenya.

Lyana Latorre, Vice President for Latin America and the Caribbean Region at The Rockefeller Foundation, expressed pride in supporting organizations that 'advance sustainable farming techniques while nourishing children through Brazil's national and world-renowned school feeding program.' The Foundation has a history of nearly 100 years of investment in the region.

Brazil's Leadership in Food Systems at COP30

Brazil, as the host nation for COP30, has prominently featured food systems on its agenda, with 'Transforming agriculture and food systems' identified as one of the six pillars of the official COP30 Action Agenda. This focus aligns with Brazil's efforts to address food insecurity and promote sustainable agricultural practices. The collaboration with the Rockefeller Foundation further strengthens these national priorities, aiming to create a more resilient and equitable food future for the country and beyond.