Micro, small and medium-scale forest enterprises
Globally, many people living in rural areas forests depend on forests as direct sources of food, fuel, building materials, fodder and medicines. The products derived from the forests can also provide cash income.
FAO assists communities and individuals in developing income-generating tree and forest product enterprises. Having an income-generating forest enterprise can nurture a local forestry culture that contributes to sustainably managing and protecting the forests the enterprise is based upon.
FAO's work
Enterprise development
- FAO has developed a methodology and training package called Market Analysis and Development (MA&D) to help prospective entrepreneurs to identify, refine and realize their business goals. It is available in English, French, and Spanish, and has been used in many projects and contexts around the world. The MA&D package is periodically reviewed and updated.
- FAO also facilitate training of trainers for enhancing small-scale forest enterprises based on MA&D processes.
- MA&D Brochure
- Market analysis and development – Manual
- MA&D Field Facilitator Guidelines (5 modules)
- Map of the MA&D process
Monitor, review and showcase the importance of small-scale enterprises
- Develop knowledge and communications products to enhance understanding and knowledge about micro, small and medium-size forest enterprises.
- Support the establishment and/or reinforcement of forest producer organizations for micro, small and medium-size forest enterprises (MSMFE).
- Contribute to better functioning business development and financial services for MSMFEs.
- Coordinate with the Forest and Farm Facility, other Forestry Division projects, decentralized offices and other relevant divisions in FAO, promoting the livelihoods and income-generating aspects of forest restoration, UNREDD and FLEGT.
Publications
Enhancing the sustainability and financing of forest-based value chains
2026
Value chain analysis offers a critical lens to understand the actors and activities connecting production to consumption, revealing market access pathways,...
The State of the World’s Forests 2024 Forest-sector innovations towards a more sustainable future
2024
This edition of The State of the World’s Forests (SOFO) provides highlights on the state of the world’s forests and explores the transformative power...
Taking stock: what we grow together counts
2023
A practical guide for family farmers and producers to develop a planted forest inventory.
A guide to multiple-use forest management planning for small and medium forest enterprises
2023
This publication discusses the concept, evolution, and requirements of forest management planning, focusing on multiple-use forest management and small...
Occupational safety and health in the future of forestry work
2023
This report identifies trends and opportunities as well as challenges to promote safe and healthy working conditions in the forest sector.