Project: Better Cotton Initiative Due Diligences in Ivory Coast
Client: Better Cotton Initiative (BCI)
Date:July 2024 – October 2024
The Problem
Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) required a due diligence process to be completed for four of its implementing partners (IPs) in Ivory Coast to assess potential partnership risks and ensure compliance with its BCI guidelines. Key areas of focus included ethics, HR, environment, operations, compliance, financial stability, and governance.
The Solution
Agova conducted the due diligence process through a structured and collaborative approach:
- Developed a roadmap, set clear objectives, and defined roles for stakeholders.
- Guided IPs through a detailed questionnaire during bi-weekly sessions, providing feedback to ensure accuracy and completeness.
- Conducted financial health checks using Better Cotton’s assessment tools.
- Performed field visits to validate questionnaire data, observe practices, and engage with local stakeholders.
- Assigned risk scores based on findings and compiled a comprehensive report with insights and actionable recommendations.
Results
The Due Diligence process was completed on schedule and in line with Better Cotton’s guidelines. The final report offered in-depth evaluations of each IP’s operational landscape, along with tailored risk management strategies to drive improvement.
