Our Company
We believe in a world where the trade of natural products and ingredients drives lasting local development, benefiting producers, their families, communities and countries. We envision a future where the connection between people and nature ensures food safety, healthy ecosystems, and a sustainable future.
Vision
To be a reference for Agri-Entrepreneurs, SMEs and Buyers seeking to maximise the value of their products & trade based on sustaining local biodiversity, regenerative production and transparent & ethical value chains.
Mission
We assist agri-entrepreneurs and SMEs to optimise their value proposition and the developments & trends in sub-sector market segments for food, health and cosmetics.
“What I enjoy most in my work for ProFound are the discussions with my colleagues and our partners worldwide, which give me a broader perspective on and understanding of today’s issues”
“When ProFound was born in the early 90s, we thought we could change the economic paradigm for developing countries by focusing on trade, and we wanted it to be sustainable. We can say that what we did then is what we are still doing today.”
“I enjoy working with ingredients that are used in the products we consume. It is rewarding to explore and maximise their potential, especially in terms of benefiting the people involved in their cultivation.”
“I feel at home at a company with driven colleagues who are committed to development and sustainability. What I also enjoy is getting my colleagues excited about their own administration of hours and planning.”
“ProFound’s reputation and extensive track record were major draws for me. With over 30 years of market experience, it’s reliable and fact-based. ProFound’s dedication to sustainable development aligns perfectly with my values.”
“It is very exciting to put knowledge into practice and to see products of daily use and consumption from a completely new perspective”
“I find it essential to be part of a committed team working towards a sustainable future. New ideas are born and nurtured, which is how This Is ProFound builds its future and reputation.”
“The diverse and international perspective of each team member not only create a welcoming environment, but also provides relevant inputs that continually empower my daily learning”
How it all Started…
Since 1990, ProFound has been active in market analysis, market entry and compliance for agri-entrepreneurs seeking to expand their business to national or international markets. ​
1992
First Steps
With the mission to be the first professionals with data on trade statistics, International Trade and Business Partners, soon to be ProFound, is born. The vision was to change the economic paradigm for developing countries by focusing on sustainable trade.Â
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1998
ProFound is Born
ProFound is established as an independent consulting company, with Bert-Jan Ottens as its owner. Its focus steadily shifts to biodiversity and trade.Â
2000
The BioTrade Programme is Launched
The creation of the BioTrade program, developed in partnership with UNCTAD, CBI, and SIPPO, marks the beginning of the natural ingredients chapter for food, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics at ProFound.Â
2007
Continuous Growth
Growth continues as the market readiness programme is fully developed and implemented across the various regions where ProFound is active.
2016
Experts in Development Trade
The foundation for developing programmes that can be applied on a global scale has been established. At this stage, the main question ProFound seeks to answer is: How can biodiversity and trade be combined? Today, we refer to this as regenerative.
2020
Becoming a Point of Reference
The Market Analysis team serves as a point of reference for exporters seeking to understand current market needs and trends. The market assessment and market readiness programmes are strengthened while uniquely curated workshops are offered in various regions worldwide.
2024
Where We Are Today
Back in 1992, when ProFound was founded, it did so with the mission of offering economic solutions for biodiverse products. This mission remains the core principle guiding our work. ReGen55, the first-ever platform for regenerative products, is created.
Driving responsible business to foster a system of change through sustainable practices across all sectors. We envision a future where the agricultural sector thrives through innovation, regeneration, and ethical business models—creating a resilient, fair, and sustainable food system for generations to come
Addressing climate change starts from the ground.
Regenerative agricultural methods enhance soil health, facilitating the absorption of atmospheric carbon and its return to the earth. These practices increase yield, reduce the cost of fertilisers and pesticides, while also promoting water management.Â
Farmers and agriEntrepenuers enhance their livelihoods
When one farmer succeeds following best practices, the entire community benefits. The youth are inspired, women are empowered, and child labour is reduced.Â
AgriEntrepenuers implement local development strategies.
 Farmers and agriEntrepeneurs create and reproduce the knowledge to reach their dream market following best practices. Â
Local Biodiversity is SustainedÂ
By sourcing sustainably, agriEntrepreneurs can assure sufficient raw materials for their production without exploiting resources. Â
Value Addition
By paying fair prices to collectors and farmers, suppliers reduce risks and volatility in their raw material supply chain. Access to finance facilitates investments and growth
Consumers become empowered and promote sustainable, traceable and transparent products.Â
Consumers are aware of their role in the value chain and become agents of best practices, spreading sustainable production beyond. Â
Our Work Has a Positive Impact on Society and the Environment.
