DAY ONE: 26 November 2024 | 16:30 – 17:30 (CET) | IFAD HQ, Rome, Italy and Zoom
Innovative Financing Approaches for Young Agriprenuers
Background
The AGA session "Strengthening the role of rural youth entrepreneurs in agrifood systems transformation through innovative financing" is organized by the Thematic Working Group on Rural Youth Employment.
Innovative financing approaches are emerging as a solution to address the unique challenges faced by rural young entrepreneurs and the agrifood system. Approaches such as blended finance, impact investing, and results-based financing are gaining traction in the agrifood sector. They mobilize private capital, development finance, and philanthropic funding to support sustainable agricultural practices and agrifood system innovations. For these mechanisms to be effective, they need to be youth-sensitive.
This session will focus on innovative financing models that cater to the needs of rural youth and young agripreneurs. By drawing lessons from various youth experiences, it aims to promote financial approaches that foster youth engagement, decent job creation, and economic growth, while supporting the global shift towards more sustainable and resilient agrifood systems.
| Agenda | ||
|---|---|---|
| 16:30–16:35 | Welcome and introduction
Moderator: Henry Bonsu, Journalist and Broadcaster |
|
| 16:35-17:10 | Panel discussion:
Moreen Nyakato, CEO, Greeco Organic Farm, Uganda
Jenice Achieng, Owner, Agnesa Bakery; Country Representative, YPARD Kenya
Nsengiyumva Prosper, Chief Executive Officer, Avocado Oil Industries Ltd
Vanessa Nzabamwita, Investment Lead, One Acre Fund |
|
| 17:10–17:25 | Reactions from the audience and takeaways of the discussion | |
| 17:25–17:30 | Wrap-up & closing Moderator and Thematic Working Group on Rural Youth Employment Co-Chairs | |
Objectives
This session aims to foster knowledge sharing and collaboration among stakeholders to enhance financial inclusion for rural youth, focusing on innovative financing solutions that drive job-rich and sustainable agrifood systems transformation.
Through interactive discussions, the session will build on the diverse experiences of rural young women and men entrepreneurs in accessing finance in the agri-food sector.
By highlighting successful approaches and lessons learned, the event will provide a platform for identifying actionable strategies that empower rural youth to access financial services, create decent jobs, and contribute to more resilient and sustainable agrifood systems.
