DUBAI / UAE, 15 April 2025: In a landmark moment for ethical finance and agricultural innovation, crypto giant Bybit has joined forces with EthicHub and the Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA) to launch a revolutionary initiative aimed at empowering smallholder coffee farmers with blockchain-backed microloans.
The collaboration came to life in a live-streamed event titled “Invest for Impact, Earn with DeFi”, where experts unpacked how decentralized finance is reshaping access to credit, sustainability, and global trade for farming communities in developing nations.
Blockchain for the People
EthicHub’s unique lending model connects unbanked farmers with global lenders using a blockchain framework that is transparent, community-audited, and designed for equitable growth. Bybit recently pledged $1 million in liquidity support to the platform—an emphatic statement about its commitment to “blockchain for good.”
“This isn’t just about investing. It’s about investing in people,” said Gabriela Chang, Co-founder and CSO of EthicHub, during the session. “Our platform is built to uplift small-scale farmers who traditionally lack access to affordable credit, even though they form the backbone of the global food supply.”
Real Impact, Real Conversations
The livestream, which aired on April 11, also featured prominent voices from across the Web3 and agriculture impact spectrum:
Jorge Barrigh, Regional Director at Heifer International (Impact Capital Americas), discussed how auditing mechanisms protect both lenders and borrowers in a decentralized ecosystem.
David Llorens, Head Roaster at Animal Coffee, gave a passionate account of how ethical sourcing improves coffee quality and farmer livelihoods.
Glenn, Lead at Blockchain for Good Alliance, highlighted the ecosystem’s efforts to incubate purpose-driven Web3 projects.
Moderated by Bybit's Shadie Berro, the event also included an audience poll on DeFi’s impact and a $2,000 prize pool giveaway.
The Bigger Picture
This initiative marks a milestone in Web3’s evolution from hype to utility. With increasing interest in ethical finance, transparent supply chains, and inclusive lending, blockchain is now being seen as a tool for economic justice, not just speculation.
Bybit’s broader Blockchain for Good initiative continues to explore use cases where Web3 can bridge economic gaps, support local communities, and drive sustainable outcomes across sectors.
“Technology becomes transformative when it meets real human needs,” said Glenn of BGA. “This project is proof that decentralized systems can be designed to uplift rather than exclude.”
Key Takeaways:
Blockchain-backed microloans now reaching unbanked coffee farmers.
Bybit commits $1M liquidity to scale lending impact.
Strong focus on sustainability, transparency, and ethical trade.
Live event brought together lenders, roasters, auditors, and developers.
