The Investment Forum, the crux of the Initiative's partnership-building effort, provides a platform for national authorities to present investment opportunities to investors, multilateral development banks, the private sector and donors, with a focus on investment potential of the agriculture sector and national agriculture and food value chain investment opportunities. For countries, long-term finance in public investments is key for Hand-in-Hand's success. For multilateral development banks, their blended finance structures and risk-mitigating mechanisms can support private investors in the poorest, fragile countries, and help enhance their roles in participating countries. For investors, direct presentation of investment cases will enable them to directly engage with countries.

After the successful first-ever Hand in Hand Investment Forum, the second and more extensive edition of the Investment Forum will take place 17-20 October 2023 in Rome, Italy, with the presence of around 30 countries. Prospective investors will also have an opportunity to learn about special regional initiatives and related investment opportunities. Two roundtables with CEOs of global agri-food firms and managers of Multilateral Development Banks are planned.

During the four-day event, Ministers from the participating countries will have the opportunity to present their country prioritized investment plans and detail opportunities in those areas where the Hand-in-Hand Initiative supports the Government to reduce rural poverty and hunger.

Bilateral meetings can also be arranged between Ministers and senior officials of each participating country with potential development partners during the event and afterwards (click here/Meet Country Representatives).