This paper draws on studies by members of the East Africa Learning Network under the knowledge programme, ‘Small Producer Agency in the Globalised Market’ run by HiVOS, IIED, and a global network led by Mainumby in Bolivia between 2008 and 2012. The programme set out to map, elicit and integrate knowledge on the dilemmas confronting small‐scale producers in global, regional and national markets. It aimed to work with different actors – farmers’ organisations, agrifood business, academics and development institutions – to bring new voices, concepts and insights into the global debate. It thereby seeks to support the development community, policymakers, producer organisations and businesses in their search for better-informed policies and practice.