Why CASA is needed
CASA is addressing the challenges of investing in smallholder agriculture in Sub-Saharan
Africa and South Asia. CASA works closely with investors, governments, donors and
agribusinesses. This is because a lack of connection between the stakeholders can be the
most significant barrier to progress. Working with our partners, this is achieved by:
Sharing evidence
CASA is providing evidence that supports the commercial and development case for investment in agri-food systems by working in smallholder farming systems and exploring climate-smart agriculture technologies. This is achieved by:
- showcasing agribusinesses that profitably source produce from smallholders
- bridging evidence gaps ensuring that investors and policymakers have access to the right information to improve decision making.
- facilitating meetings which use the evidence base to agree prioritized action plans to drive up investment in agribusinesses
- profiling climate-smart technologies that can help the sector cope with the risks emerging from climate change
- documenting how building resilience in smallholder farming communities can ensure the development impact of investment
- delivering innovative communications to key stakeholders and opinion formers
Supporting networks
CASA is encouraging investors, policymakers and agribusinesses to share knowledge and expertise. This is achieved by:
- facilitating online and face-to-face meetings and information sharing
- brokering meetings between investors and agribusinesses
- providing databases of contacts for investable businesses, investors and technical assistance providers
Attracting investment
CASA is attracting investment into the agri-food sector, boosting economic growth and raising demand for smallholder produce. This is achieved by:
- understanding and implementing successful business models that can become impactful and profitable investments
- increasing the pipeline of investment-ready agribusinesses by providing pre- and post-investment technical assistance
- strengthening value chains by removing bottlenecks. This can help stakeholders, including smallholder farmers, to maximize their returns while improving the resilience of food systems in lower- and middle-income countries
- making investment in the agri-food sector more conducive to investors
