Solidfund members approved a £10,000 distribution to Hempen, a worker cooperative based in Oxfordshire whose mission is to grow and cultivate UK based organic hemp "for the health of the people, rural communities and the land."
Hempen Cooperative pioneered the seed-to-shelf cultivation, processing and production of industrial hemp in the UK. They are respected leaders in the industry, and the only UK worker co-op in this space. Although SF doesn't do loans - only straightforward financial awards - a £10,000 distribution was requested by Hempen to help the co-op though a critical cashflow squeeze, while it waits for £55,000 of grant and project money. The co-op has voluntarily committed to 're-gifting' the award to SF before 2026.