Increasing responsible investment is critical to achieving the sustainable transformation of food systems, and is thus essential to eradicate poverty and hunger, create decent employment and foster social cohesion. Responsible investment in agriculture and food systems contributes to sustainable development, improves food security and nutrition, and respects human rights, while ensuring a return on investment for the investor. Responsible investment hence generates a triple performance in terms of profits (for the investor), people (for communities and consumers), and the planet (sustainable use of natural resources).
Our mission
FAO works with governments, small-scale producers, civil society, academia and the private sector to increase responsible investment in agriculture and food systems. Our work is normatively grounded in the Committee on World Food Security Principles for Responsible Investment in Agriculture and Food Systems (CFS-RAI), which constitutes the main international guidance instrument in this regard.
Highlights
Master coaches: guaranteeing quality and effectiveness in responsible business coaching
08/12/2025
(Available in French only) The Agri-Accelerator by FAO empowers young agri-entrepreneurs with guidance, training in responsible investment, and support...
E-learning
Supporting young agri-entrepreneurs with responsible agricultural investment projects
This course prepares agribusiness coaches to support young agri-entrepreneurs through CFS-RAI–based coaching and business planning.
Story
“When I researched foods that could help [my daughter], I discovered the rich properties of these three plants.”
Turning Tunisia’s native plants into healthy, gluten-free food, Asma transforms tradition into opportunity.
Featured publications
Global
Responsible investments in agriculture and food systems – A practical handbook for parliamentarians and parliamentary advisors
07/12/2020
This Practical Handbook is directed to Members of Parliament and Parliamentary Advisors, who are considered “change agents”. It provides a comprehensive...
National
Using the living wage and business calculator for young agri-entrepreneurs in the Gambia – Handbook
31/10/2025
The agricultural sector employs over 70% of Gambians and offers strong opportunities for youth-led MSEs. A spreadsheet-based living wage and business...
Videos
E-learning
Supporting young agri-entrepreneurs with responsible agricultural investment projects
01/12/2025
This course trains agribusiness coaches to support young agri-entrepreneurs using CFS-RAI principles. It builds mentors’ skills in responsible investment,...
Micro e-learning: Preparing your responsible investment project pitch
06/10/2025
Learn how to prepare and deliver a clear, persuasive pitch for your responsible agri-investment project. This micro e-learning helps you highlight economic,...
Micro e-learning: Fill out your responsible business model
02/06/2025
Build a profitable agri-business while creating positive social and environmental impact. This micro e-learning helps young agri-entrepreneurs turn...
Empower women to engage in responsible investment in agriculture and food systems
05/05/2025
This course examines gender gaps in agrifood systems, focusing on why women face barriers to starting and growing agribusinesses and accessing opportunities...
Micro e-learning: Completing your business plan
03/03/2025
Turn your responsible business model into measurable results. This micro e-learning shows how to translate your RAI business model into technical, economic,...
Screening for responsible investment in agriculture and food systems
09/09/2024
This course covers the screening stage of investment assessment, explaining screening and due diligence and their role in promoting responsible agricultural...
Micro e-learning: Preparing your personalized operationalization plan
07/03/2024
Learn how to monitor and steer your agri-business project effectively. This micro e-learning introduces the personal operational plan, helping you track...
Empower youth to engage in responsible investment in agriculture and food systems
14/03/2023
This course is intended to help private investors plan and operate responsible investments by applying the “Principles for Responsible Investment in...
Course series: Creating an enabling environment for responsible investment in agriculture and food systems - Reform
01/12/2022
This course, the first in a three-part series, supports public and private stakeholders in driving reforms for responsible agricultural investment....
Responsible investment in agriculture and food systems targeted to the private sector
01/12/2021
This course is intended to help private investors plan and operate responsible investments by applying the “Principles for Responsible Investment in...
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Course series: Creating an enabling environment for responsible investment in agriculture and food systems - Analysis
04/05/2020
This course, which is part of series of three, provides guidance to conduct an analysis and gap identification for the creation of an enabling environment...
Course series : Creating an enabling environment for responsible investment in agriculture and food systems - Fundamentals
02/09/2019
This course illustrates the importance of responsible investment in agriculture and food systems for sustainable development, as well as the scope and...