The handbook is a practical guide for firms who wish to expand their supply chains by working with smallholder farmers. The purpose is to enable more productive interactions between private firms and smallholders, creating value in all parts of the chain. It covers a broad range of topics including farmer aggregation, training and communication strategies, standards and certification, access to inputs, farm management, the role of women in supply chains, and measuring results. It also provides a framework for decision making and recommends tools and resources for firms engaging with smallholder farmers.
This handbook is written for the operational managers in agribusinesses companies responsible for integrating smallholder farmers into value chains as suppliers, clients, or customers, including:
- Product and sales managers for input manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, and retailers.
- Field managers for financial institutions and their small business clients.
- Training service providers working with smallholders.
- Supply chain and sustainability managers for off-takers.
- Sustainability managers for processors and food companies.
- Company managers responsible for engagement via public-private partnerships.