While an estimated $8 billion is spent annually on agricultural technical assistance in developing countries[1], this amount has yet to make a significant impact on the smallholder farmers and agricultural Small and Growing Businesses (SGBs). Current methods used to transfer relevant knowledge and skills to agricultural professionals are frequently too limited in their effectiveness, and greater amounts of funding are unlikely to resolve this problem. A change in the way key concepts and practices are acquired by agribusiness managers is required.
Economic growth is at the core of resilient, sustainable economies worldwide. GAS collaborates with national governments, smallholder farmers, and business associations to fully engage individuals and communities, multiplying economic opportunities for strong societies. Concurrently, we develop local capacity at institutional, firm, and farm levels to expand production, and strengthen market systems. We facilitate stronger business environments by brokering public-private dialogue, establishing private-sector partnerships, and supporting policy reforms. Driving trade, technology, agriculture, business, and financial services to create jobs, reduce poverty, and enhance food security.
Our economic growth work brings together the right mix of industry dynamics to unleash broad and inclusive growth. Focusing on commercial sustainability, and building on the fundamental belief that small businesses and farmers play vital roles in the value chains at the heart of developing economies, we work to improve domestic and global market access, forge links between companies, enhance workforce productivity, expand access to finance, and boost local value. Our programs seek to leave behind adaptive commercial systems that provide ordinary citizens with concrete opportunities to build better lives for themselves, their communities, and their nations. As incomes rise, so do the structures—and the courage—to demand accountability from government officials, especially in the development of predictable, internationally competitive business environments.
Business Management and Entrepreneurship: We develop and implement innovative startup, small, and medium enterprises and private sector growth strategies aiming at enhancing individual, national and international competitiveness.
Trade: We work with various stakeholder players and businesses to increase their participation in local, regional, and international markets.
Strategic planning and Business modelling
Finance and Investment: We develop innovative, technology-driven finance and investment solutions that accelerate farming, enterprise, and industry expansion.
Agriculture and Food Security: We address food insecurity by championing sustainable solutions that lead to resilient and sustainable livelihoods.
Market Systems and Value Chain analysis: We implement market systems development programs, and integrate the value chain approach and the Making Markets Work for the Poor approach (M4P) within the broader systemic thinking to enhance competitiveness, inclusiveness, and resilient growth.