Non-GMO Project’s Equitable Transfer Program supports Choputa’s mission to bring ancient African grain Fonio to U.S. consumers

Company’s ancient African supergrains are an innovative non-GMO option for U.S. breakfast tables

The Non-GMO Project recently announced that Choputa is the latest recipient in its Equitable Transfer Program (ETP). Choputa will receive funding to support the costs associated with renewal for Non-GMO Product verification of its products.

Choputa is focused on reintroducing fonio—a climate-resilient, ancient West African supergrain—to modern breakfast tables. Founded in 2020 by Uche Jumbo, Choputa’s mission is to nourish communities, promote food security, and preserve traditional farming practices through a line of dairy-free and gluten-free instant cereals that celebrate the heritage of this grain, while also delivering essential nutrients including fiber, protein, and vitamins.

“Growing up in Nigeria, I witnessed firsthand how this supergrain nourished my family, including those managing diabetes,” said Jumbo. “Inspired by fonio’s rich heritage and remarkable nutritional benefits, I founded Choputa to bring the world’s first-ever fonio cereal to life—because breakfast shouldn’t just fill you up; it should fuel your potential.”

Choputa’s commitment extends beyond its product offerings. By supporting sustainable agriculture and empowering farmers in sub-Saharan Africa, the brand actively seeks to alleviate hunger and enhance food security in the region where fonio is grown.

Megan Westgate, CEO of the Non-GMO Project, said: “Uche’s work to reintroduce fonio—an ancient, resilient grain with deep cultural roots—exemplifies how traditional food wisdom can address modern challenges like climate change and food security. We’re thrilled to support her vision for a more resilient, culturally rich food system. Climate-adaptive crops like fonio represent crucial alternatives to industrial monocultures, and brands like Choputa are leading the way in bringing these solutions to market.”

Already a Non-GMO Project Verified brand, Choputa will apply the funding toward their verification renewal for their instant breakfast cereal made with fonio.

The Equitable Transfer Program, now in its fifth round since its 2023 launch, has provided $10,000 in total funding this cycle to support BIPOC-led brands in the natural products industry. The initiative aims to address systemic inequities in food systems by supporting businesses committed to community, transparency and clean ingredients.

Organic & Non-GMO Insights August 2025