On The Ground started as a way for its founding partner (Higher Grounds Trading Company) to give something back to the fair trade farm communities around the world where it sources its goods. (Coffee beans, olive oil, etc.) Through a network of key partners, including several other coffee roasters, On The Ground seeks to go beyond simply paying a fair price for the products that make the Fair-Trade business model possible. The organization serves its mission by raising funds and awareness for Fair Trade communities around the globe.