This project, which builds on the successful first phase of a project that closed in 2004, strengthens rural microenterprises managed by individuals or associations in order to modernize them, improve their management and create jobs. The project gives priority to disadvantaged groups such as women, young people, orphans, landless farmers and families affected by HIV/AIDS. The 2008 mid-term review gave the project a value chain focus.

The project's objectives are to:

• create and develop a network of farmers' organizations, professional associations and federations to meet the needs of small businesses and microenterprises
• raise productivity and standards of quality among microenterprises
• provide entrepreneurs with access to sustainable financial services, non-financial services and markets
• contribute to elaborating a national institutional and policy framework for support to small businesses and microenterprises

Project website

Source: IFAD