Back to the projectSeed Fund
Context of the story
Since 2015, FONTAGRO has been promoting the mobilization of resources towards the development of new scientific knowledge, technology development, and innovations to support the transformation process of agri-food systems in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Spain. The FONTAGRO Board of Directors deemed it necessary to establish a Technical Cooperation for the allocation of financing aimed at facilitating resource mobilization alongside other partners. This system is referred to as "Seed Funds".
The budget allocated for the Seed Funds is used for workshops with expert leaders in the topics to be addressed, aimed at understanding the current situation in each participating country. This allows for the development of a consensus-based proposal using the FONTAGRO funding parameters.
The implemented initiative
Since 2015, FONTAGRO has been promoting the mobilization of resources towards the development of new scientific knowledge, technology development, and innovations to support the transformation process of agri-food systems in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Spain. In line with experiences over these years, the FONTAGRO Board of Directors deemed it necessary to create a new method of allocating small-scale financing aimed at facilitating resource mobilization alongside other partners. This new approach is referred to as "Seed Funds". The Technical Cooperation of the Seed Funds aims to increase the mobilization of Technical Cooperation funds from FONTAGRO along with other agencies.
The technological solution
The technological solution provides a virtual space that facilitates the search and formation of strategic alliances, as well as collaboration and teamwork. This digital environment offers tools and resources that enable users to explore collaboration opportunities, share knowledge and experiences, and coordinate efforts to achieve common goals. Furthermore, it serves as a space where stakeholders can connect, discuss, and develop joint projects efficiently and effectively, thereby driving innovation and progress in diverse contexts.
The interaction among various stakeholders in discussion spaces facilitates the identification of opportunities and challenges for the development of innovative projects.
Participating countries
United States
Argentina
Chile
Costa Rica
UruguayResults
Seed funds have emerged as a crucial platform for interaction among institutions from different countries, fostering significant discussions on specific topics and the pursuit of technological solutions for the benefit of farmers. This space has been essential for developing a detailed understanding of the current situation and comprehending technological progress and regional efforts. Additionally, seed funds have catalyzed the formation of strategic alliances and mobilization of resources in support of agriculture. To date, three seed funds have been conducted, one of which translated into a project aimed at strengthening the resilience of indigenous communities against climate change. While a proposal for biologicals is still undergoing restructuring to secure necessary financing, the third seed fund, despite not continuing, has fostered alliances and laid the groundwork for future proposals.
Participating Organizations
Main donors