Root Foundation

Root Foundation is a design-led social enterprise mineral company that supports transitions in transforming communities' mineral wealth into prosperity through design-driven interventions. We're pioneering a new approach to Africa's mineral wealth that centers community agency in three key areas: De-risk Investment: Implementing innovative models to attract responsible investment for sustainable mining practices throughout Africa. Local Value Addition: Developing infrastructure and capabilities for in-country mineral processing and alternative place-based mineral use within African communities. Community Beneficiation: Ensuring mining communities receive tangible benefits from their mineral assets through equitable revenue sharing and development. Our innovative 60/20/20 model involves 60% of profits funding community initiatives, 20% directly benefiting miners and landowners, and 20% sustaining our operations. Our integrated model includes Root Studios (design co-working and maker spaces), Root Products (sustainable mineral operations), and Root Research (applied research for sustainable mineral futures). Through this approach, we're transforming how communities identify, manage, and benefit from their mineral assets, ensuring both environmental stewardship and socio-economic dividends. Together, we aim to prove that minerals can serve as catalysts for sustainable development when communities lead the way. Learn more at www.rootfoundation.org