Business Development Mentor (Cocoa Cooperative)

We’re looking for a Business Development Mentor (Cocoa Cooperative) who can volunteer in a hybrid role both remotely (online) and in-country for a total of 9 months. 

• This assignment seeks to develop a comprehensive business plan for the cocoa cooperative that aligns with HWC’s goals for income generation and food security while establishing its legal and operational framework, including compliance with IRC requirements for trading and taxation.
• To be considered for this role, you’ll need proven experience in business planning and development, particularly for agricultural cooperatives or community-based enterprises, with a strong understanding of legal and regulatory requirements, including tax compliance and trading regulations.
• As a volunteer, you will mentor selected farmers in leadership skills, cooperative management practices, and the operation of key facilities such as the fermenter.

About the Partner Organisation 

Hako Women's Collective is a grassroots organization based in Buka, the capital of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB), Papua New Guinea. Its mission is to empower women in Bougainville by creating opportunities that promote social, economic, and cultural development. The collective provides a platform for women to voice their concerns and contribute to decision-making processes, helping to break down barriers to gender equality. Key areas of focus include economic empowerment, women's rights advocacy, and leadership training. Through programs such a financial literacy workshops, sustainable business initiatives, and health education, the collective strives to improve the livelihoods of women and their communities.

Hako Women’s Collective needs a volunteer to provide essential expertise in business development, cooperative management, and capacity building, which are currently lacking within the organization. While HWC has successfully initiated projects to address food security and income generation, such as cocoa farming, there is a critical need for skilled support to establish and manage a sustainable cocoa cooperative. This includes creating a business plan, ensuring legal and operational compliance, mentoring farmers in leadership and management, and setting up effective administrative systems. The volunteer’s contribution will help bridge this skills gap, enabling HWC to build long-term capacity and improve livelihoods for rural farming families.

About the Australian Volunteers Program  

The Australian Volunteers Program is an Australian government-funded initiative. We support partner organisations across the Pacific, Asia, and Africa to achieve locally led change.  

Volunteers are supported throughout their volunteer journey. We actively support and encourage people of all backgrounds and abilities to volunteer and aim to make the program as accessible and inclusive as possible. If you have accessibility requirements, please contact us to discuss how we can support you to volunteer with us - inclusion@australianvolunteers.com. Learn more about our commitment to inclusion.