2020 Investor Summit: Bridging demand and supply of private investment capital for SMEs

The aim of the panel was to discuss alternative strategies used by investors and development actors to bridge the risk and reward gap of investing in agri-SMEs, as well as the available supply of investment ready agri-SMEs. The session explored different mechanisms used to identify investment ready agri-SMEs, as well as different models of agri-SME financing and technical assistance. The discussion were framed around research conducted by CASA explored by a diverse panel, including investors and investment support stakeholders.

The Commercial Agriculture for Smallholders and Agribusiness (CASA) programme supports the commercial and development case for investing in agribusinesses that source produce from smallholders in the global South. The summit is designed to provide communities of investors opportunities to reflect on issues affecting the viability and growth of agri-businesses. This year’s inaugural summit focuses on three research reports commissioned by the CASA programme. In addition to the researchers, the three sessions will also feature agribusinesses on the virtual panels reflecting on lessons learnt by them and their peers. The platform for the Summit supports the AGRF Deal Room and will facilitate active networking amongst participants.