Private Sector Engagement
Private sector engagement is another major focus in Bangladesh. By partnering with private companies, Feed the Future conducted training for sunflower, mung bean, maize, sesame and aquaculture farmers and unlocked $4.3 million in private sector investment. As a result, distribution networks for environment-friendly agricultural inputs were strengthened, agricultural machinery services were expanded and crop diversification was enhanced.
In 2019, Feed the Future’s partnerships with 29 private companies mobilized nearly $900,000 to develop improved inputs, like seeds, and financial and extension services, which benefited over 65,000 farmers. For example, these partnerships ensured over 39,000 farmers had access to improved seed varieties.
In addition, Feed the Future partnered with agricultural machinery importers, manufacturers and dealers to promote small-scale agricultural mechanization in Bangladesh, resulting in local service providers investing nearly $600,000 to purchase 617 machines such as reapers, mini-combine harvesters and power tiller-operated seeders. Because of this partnership, more than 95,000 farmers were able to improve their efficiency through agricultural machinery services, covering around 35,000 hectares of land.