Kospermindo — Koperasi Serikat Pekerja Merdeka Indonesia — has passed the first stage of selection for the Madaya Sustainable Fund 2026 with its programme Empowering Seaweed Farmers through a UV-Plastic Smart Drying House Innovation.
The cooperative describes the initiative as part of its commitment to transforming the coastal economy through innovation, sustainability and stronger capacity in local communities — building a coastal ecosystem that is more productive, more self-reliant and more competitive.
Why drying is the focus
Much of the value of a seaweed harvest is won or lost in the days after it leaves the water. Seaweed dried on the ground picks up sand and dirt, and rain can re-wet a crop left uncovered — problems we described in why drying decides the price of dried seaweed.
A drying house covered with UV-stabilised plastic works like a simple greenhouse: seaweed dries on raised racks under cover, protected from rain and dust while still receiving the sun’s heat. For farmers, the aim is cleaner, more consistently dried seaweed; for buyers, a more reliable product.
What comes next
- The programme continues through the next stages of the Madaya Sustainable Fund 2026 selection.
- Kospermindo thanked Yayasan Indonesia Berdaya for its support.
“A small step towards a bigger impact,” the cooperative wrote in announcing the result.
About Kospermindo
Kospermindo has supported seaweed farmer groups in South and Central Sulawesi since 2002, through Farmer Group Centres, mentoring and technical assistance, savings and loan services, and partnerships with factories and exporters. Read more about our work with seaweed farmers or contact our team.
Originally shared on Kospermindo’s Instagram, 10 June 2026.