Until June 2006, TRIT activities were funded mainly through a cess imposed on all processed tea sold by producers and also by cooperating donors. The TTP was principally funded by the UK Department for International Development during 1999 – 2003.
Starting July 2001, the European Union through the Stabex funds has provided support for Farmer training, Smallholder nursery scheme and procurement of research facilities and equipment. Since July 2006 the Government of Tanzania is providing core funding for research and technology transfer activities.
TRIT is also contracted by various Tea processing companies to provide extension services at cost. This is another area where TRIT draws resources for its core activities.