Non-Profits

Non-profit Organizations providing support and services to the Agrifood Cluster

Non-profit organizations play a supportive role by providing training, advocacy, and funding opportunities to local farmers. These groups are instrumental in promoting sustainable farming practices and building capacity within the agricultural community. Collaboration between non-profits and other stakeholders in the value chain is seen as essential for driving systemic change and supporting smaller-scale producers.

Associated Challenges:

Lack of Coordination Among Stakeholders	There is limited coordination between producers, government agencies, and industry groups, hindering collaboration and the development of unified strategies to address systemic issues like transportation, market access, and workforce shortages.
Data Gaps in the Value Chain	Data collection, especially from smaller farms and backyard producers, is insufficient. Without comprehensive data, it is difficult to make informed decisions regarding market opportunities and areas for improvement within the value chain.
Pests and Plant Diseases	Insufficient services and high costs for pest management make it challenging for small farmers to protect crops from pests and diseases. This leads to lower productivity and increased financial strain on producers.
Inadequate Technical Assistance	Limited access to technical support services, such as extension programs and research institutions, constrains farmers' ability to implement modern farming techniques and business practices, particularly among small farms.