The challenge
The responsible transformation of food systems is a necessity against the backdrop of conflict, climate change, and economic instability. We need to produce more and better food with less resources and ensure the availability and accessibility of safe, healthy and culturally adapted food on local markets globally. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) play a critical role in food systems and are hence key drivers for food systems transformation. In Africa, more than 65 percent of food produced, aggregated, and distributed is handled by SMEs. In Europe, 90 percent of all food and beverage companies are SMEs. Supporting SMEs in becoming agents of change in food systems transformation is hence essential to boost sustainable production, decent employment and food security.
Our objective
FAO fosters the sustainable transformation of food systems by promoting responsible investment in agrifood systems. We empower sustainable businesses and foster strong investment ecosystems with a strong focus on SME development, thus ensuring a triple performance of investments in terms of profits (investment return), people (communities and consumers) and planet (environmental sustainability). The Committee on World Food Security’s Principles for Responsible Investment in Agriculture and Food Systems (CFS-RAI Principles) provide the normative foundation for our work. They set the foundations for investments in agriculture and food systems that contribute to food security, human rights and sustainable development more broadly.
Our strategy
Levers of change
Capacity development
Strengthening capacities of key actors that can champion responsible investment in agriculture and food systems within their field of influence.
Technical guidance and participatory research
Ensuring that key actors have access to the right knowledge (information, data, tools) to advance actionable solutions.
Partnerships
Promoting inclusive dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders to build a common vision and join forces to boost responsible investment in agriculture and food systems.
Impact
Improved governance
An enabling environment for RAI is created through the alignment of policies, incentives and legal frameworks with the CFS-RAI Principles. A coordinated and multistakeholder approach to decision-making in the context of agricultural investment is promoted, achieving more efficient and inclusive processes.
Empowered agri-entrepreneurs
Small and medium enterprises are boosted through agri-accelerators by enhancing information on responsible investment opportunities; strengthening the investment ecosystem by increasing capacities of business advisers; and directly empowering young agri-entrepreneurs with technical, coaching and financial incentives for responsible investment in agriculture and food systems.