John Deere Foundation to award $2.5 million to African nonprofit organization

John Deere gave the money to Opportunity International, a nonprofit organization that will place the money within the Banking on Africa program.
John Deere gave the money to Opportunity International, a nonprofit organization that will place the money within the Banking on Africa program.

John Deere Foundation to award $2.5 million to African nonprofit organization

The John Deere Foundation announced that it had donated $2.5 million to support African farmers and entrepreneurs in an effort to support the businesses that may emerge in sub-Sarahan Africa, according to Sage Nonprofit Solutions.

John Deere gave the money to Opportunity International, a nonprofit organization that will place the money within the Banking on Africa program. This account was set up to give farmers and entrepreneurs access to lending, savings accounts and insurance in order to establish a proper business, the nonprofit reported.

"We are impressed with the progress that Opportunity International has made in increasing access to financial services for African farmers, food processors and retailers," John Bustle, vice president of the Deere Foundation, told Sage. "Likewise, we are excited and optimistic about Opportunity's ongoing efforts to create a sustainable framework for enhanced food security through increased food production, food availability at local markets and family income to purchase food."

Along with the charitable actions that the company performs through its foundation, John Deere offers a new line of tractors and other farm equipment, according to the company website.