By Alex Popa
Antonio Philantrope is a Haitian entrepreneur with a mission to transform the chocolate industry while uplifting his community. As the founder of CHOKOPAM INC., he is not only producing premium chocolate using 100% Haitian cacao but also championing fair trade and sustainable farming practices. His entrepreneurial journey is a testament to resilience, vision, and commitment to social impact.
With backgrounds in tax and accounting, logistics, and defensive driving instruction, Philantrope has built multiple successful businesses. However, CHOKOPAM is more than just a business venture for him—it is a movement to restore Haiti’s place as a global leader in cacao production. His journey, challenges, and aspirations paint a vivid picture of what it takes to be a game-changer in an industry deeply rooted in history and culture.
Personal Life and Educational Background
Born in Gonaïves, Haiti, Antonio Philantrope moved to the United States in 1990. After spending 11 years in New Jersey, he relocated to Georgia in 2002, where he has been actively involved in business and community development.
He attended Essex County College and the New Jersey Institute of Technology, where he gained expertise in accounting and business management. Over the years, he built a strong career in tax and accounting, opening his firm in Georgia over 22 years ago. His FAST TAX Rx & Accounting Services has been a cornerstone in the Haitian community in Georgia, providing financial guidance and services to individuals and businesses.
Beyond his professional achievements, Philantrope is a husband and father of three, balancing his entrepreneurial journey with his family life. His passion for community service has kept him deeply involved in various initiatives, making a lasting impact on the Haitian diaspora in the U.S.
The Entrepreneur’s Profile
Philantrope is a multifaceted entrepreneur who has successfully established multiple businesses, including:
- FAST TAX Rx & Accounting Services has been providing tax and financial services for over two decades.
- Academy of DUI & Defensive Driving School—A licensed training facility for defensive driving and DUI risk reduction.
- Trinity Expert Carrier Logistics Inc. is a transportation and logistics company.
However, his passion for Haitian heritage and economic empowerment led him to create CHOKOPAM, a company dedicated to producing 100% organic chocolate made from premium Haitian cacao beans. Through CHOKOPAM, he aims to empower local farmers, create jobs, and promote Haiti’s rich cacao legacy while offering high-quality chocolate to the world.
The Vision Behind CHOKOPAM
CHOKOPAM was founded in August 2019 in Gonaïves, Haiti. Philantrope’s vision was to revive Haiti’s historic cacao industry, which once made the country a global leader in chocolate production. Seeing the struggles of local farmers and the decline of fair trade practices, he envisioned CHOKOPAM as more than just a brand—it’s a movement toward economic sustainability and cultural preservation.
Starting CHOKOPAM was not without challenges. Philantrope had to overcome political instability, economic downturns, and supply chain disruptions in Haiti. These challenges affected production schedules, investor confidence, and fair trade implementation. However, his determination allowed him to navigate these obstacles and continue building a sustainable, high-quality chocolate brand.
Goals for 2025 and Beyond
Philantrope envisions CHOKOPAM as a globally recognized brand, known for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and fair trade practices. His key goals for 2025 include
1. Expanding brand recognition and introducing CHOKOPAM to international markets.
2. Partnering with Partners In Progress to help farmers transition to regenerative agroecology under the Konbit Vanyan Kapab Farmer-to-Farmer Agroecology for Food Sovereignty Initiative (FAFSI).
3. Increasing manufacturing capacity while maintaining high-quality control standards.
4. Expanding retail and e-commerce presence to make CHOKOPAM more accessible.
5. Creating more job opportunities and investing in education and healthcare initiatives for cacao farmers and their families.
Word of Advice for Upcoming Entrepreneurs
Philantrope believes that success in entrepreneurship comes down to focus, discipline, patience, and determination. His top three skills for success include:
- Anticipating Market Trends—Understanding where the industry is headed and adapting strategies accordingly.
- Learning from Failures—Every failure is a lesson. Adjust and refine your approach instead of giving up.
- Financial Management—Budgeting, forecasting, and managing cash flow effectively are critical for long-term business success.
For young entrepreneurs, Philantrope emphasizes the importance of giving back. Business should be about profit and about making a positive impact on communities. He encourages entrepreneurs to invest in people, sustainability, and ethical business practices.
Antonio Philantrope is more than an entrepreneur—he is a visionary dedicated to reviving Haiti’s cacao industry while empowering local communities. CHOKOPAM is not just a chocolate brand; it’s a symbol of resilience, sustainability, and cultural heritage.
Through his never-ending dedication to quality, fair trade, and community development, Philantrope is ensuring that Haitian cacao regains its rightful place on the global stage. His journey is an inspiration for all aspiring entrepreneurs—showing that with passion, perseverance, and a clear mission, success is possible.