To create realistic sustainable development for forest stewards in Northern climates by providing the methodology of production, the equipment, the marketing and distribution of refreshing non-alcoholic tree sap beverages. Arbo Fonto intends to be the leading producer and distributor of these beverages.

Arbo Fonto would be set up as a co-operative or incorporated company with a for profit mandate while respecting its mission and the environment. 51% will be owned by Community Earth or similar NPO (Charity) with the remaining 49% held by private investors. Once profits are attained other social entrepreneur projects will be thus supported.

Since 2004: R&D, test batches with positive results, production methods and strategies worked out, development of business plan and cost analysis, legal and competitor research undertaken, preliminary marketing done, new R&D into cheaper and more environmentally sound techniques of sterilisation followed by test batches with negative results (2007).

1 to 2 years - attain funding, incorporate company, redo R&D with tests for the new sterilisation technique with alterations, finalise the methodology for producers & set up of mini production facilities.

2 years - contract producers, develop market and begin production, launch of product into the marketplace regardless of the method of production chosen.

3 to 5 years - realise profits, create new markets (international), begin development of new beverage lines.

Start up investment of $250,000.

Investors and bank loans, with possibilities of grants from the agricultural & employment creation programs as secondary sources.

The only real risk factor is dependence on weather and that production is a seasonal affair, which means we must be prepared and well managed. Secondary risks could be the competition however their visibility is still very small and the products are inferior to Arbo Fonto. Of utmost importance then will be good and relentless marketing to ensure our place. Other smaller risks are taken care of and addressed in detail in the business plan.

There is no reason why Arbo Fonto can't be a successful new age company, it is really a matter of marketing and distribution. The way in which Arbo Fonto does business with the community addresses many social and economic issues.

Drinking Arbo Fonto products would not just be self-gratifying to customer taste buds but also a responsible action for them to take. Good for the health and also good for the planet. Protecting the temperate forests, reducing CO2 emissions, supporting action oriented not for profit organisations, supporting local farmers with fair pay for their trade, we give the consumer opportunities to be part of the solution.

People and trees in symbiosis!