Launched in Hoi An, Vietnam, in April 2013, Seedlings Café leverages Banyan Tree’s Food & Beverage expertise to create a lasting positive impact within host communities. Initial seed funding for Seedlings Café is provided by Banyan Tree Global Foundation.

Covering kitchens, service, and overall restaurant management, the training program starts as paid internships which also provide basic life skills training to assist with overall personal development. Hands-on approach within a live training restaurant provides genuine situational experience.

Young adults at particular risk are selected, with vocational training provided by hotel F&B departments and life skills from training teams. Training includes internships within hotel outlets, with graduates spending 9 months working at a Seedlings Café before permanent job placement at local outlets.