Following the calibration of Caquetá’s first local sensory analysis panel in May 2025 by Cacao of Excelence Programme Manager Julien Simonis, the collaboration between Fundación Carlota, GIZ Colombia, the University of the Amazon (UniAmazonía), and Cacao of Excellence has continued to grow with, this time, Colombian participants reaching our R&D laboratory.
As part of the project’s next phase to consolidate and professionalise sensory expertise, eight participants travelled to the Cacao of Excellence Laboratory in Perugia, Italy, where they received advanced, hands-on training directly from the team.
Strengthening Technical Skills Through International Exchange
This additional training gave participants the opportunity to deepen their understanding of cacao sensory analysis using the precise methodologies developed and applied by the Cacao of Excellence Programme. Working alongside the Lab team, they refined their skills in cacao mass preparation, sensory calibration, and data interpretation - essential steps toward elevating Caquetá’s sensory panel to an internationally recognised standard.
The visit also allowed participants to experience the workflow of a fully equipped cacao research and evaluation facility, and to receive personalised feedback to further strengthen their technical capacity. This exchange represented an important milestone in the project’s commitment to building a strong, self-sustaining quality ecosystem in Caquetá.
A Continued Journey Toward Excellence
By bringing part of the Caquetá team to Perugia, the initiative reinforces its long-term goal: empowering local actors with globally validated tools and expertise that can stimulate the production and commercialisation of superior quality, differentiated cacao.
This international extension of the training underscores the shared commitment of Fundación Carlota, UniAmazonía, GIZ Colombia, and Cacao of Excellence to support a more competitive, sustainable, and inclusive cacao value chain in Caquetá, one that highlights the region’s remarkable potential and its producers’ growing expertise.
About Fundación Carlota
Fundación Carlota is a Colombian non-profit organisation focused on rural development and environmental sustainability. With deep roots in Caquetá, the foundation works directly with farming communities to foster regenerative agricultural practices, economic diversification, and gender equity. Fundación Carlota plays a critical role in building local capacities and connecting producers with national and international markets, especially in emerging value chains such as fine and flavour cacao.
About GIZ Colombia
The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH is the German agency for international cooperation and sustainable development. GIZ Colombia works closely with public and private actors to support peacebuilding, rural development, environmental protection, and climate adaptation. Through technical cooperation and strategic partnerships, GIZ helps to strengthen value chains, promote inclusive economic opportunities, and foster innovation across Colombia’s territories — including support for the cacao sector.
About Universidad de la Amazonia (UniAmazonía)
UniAmazonía is a leading public university based in Florencia, Caquetá, dedicated to advancing education, research, and innovation in Colombia’s Amazon region. Through its Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, the university plays a key role in promoting sustainable rural development, biodiversity conservation, and agroecological practices. UniAmazonía supports academic and technical training for local communities, with a focus on empowering rural youth and strengthening regional value chains, including fine cacao.
About Cacao of Excellence
Cacao of Excellence is the global platform dedicated to promoting cacao quality and flavor diversity as drivers of value for producers and resilience for the sector. Led by the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, the program identifies, promotes, and recognizes high-quality cacao from all producing origins. Since its creation in 2009 with the Cacao of Excellence Awards, the program has expanded its scope to include capacity-building activities, research, and innovation, with the goal of establishing common quality standards and strengthening technical expertise throughout the entire value chain.
