Cambodia Investment Review
A strategic alliance between Khmer Enterprise, Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), HEKS/EPER Cambodia, and CARITAS Switzerland has given rise to an innovative program. The Khmer Agriculture for the Future Incubator signifies a new stride toward climate-resilient agriculture in Cambodia.
The KAF Incubator, under the Nurture Project, aims to promote entrepreneurship and emphasize the roles of startups in providing climate-resilient agriculture and agroecological products to smallholder farmers in Cambodia. The program focuses on market-based innovations that can enable these farmers to access climate-resilient agriculture products and services, helping them adapt to climate change risks.
Implemented over 10 months – with 6 months post program support, the prohect targets beneficiaries in rural areas across four provinces including Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Oddar Meanchey, and Preah Vihear. It is designed to support entrepreneurs in developing and strengthening minimum viable products and services to make smallholder farmers more climate resilient. The 8 ventures selected will each receive a $5,000 cash prize as seed funding to invest and implement their ventures.
Wealth Of Experience in Entrepreneurship Development Within Cambodia
Impact Hub Phnom Penh, entrusted with organizing the incubation program, will draw from its wealth of experience in entrepreneurship development within Cambodia.
Read more: Cambodian Tech Enterprises Pioneer Digital Transformation of Agriculture Supply Chain
H.E. Dr. Chhieng Vanmunin, CEO of Khmer Enterprise, detailed the program’s alignment with the Royal Government of Cambodia’s strategy for a climate-responsive entrepreneurial ecosystem. The program consists of three phases including pre-incubation, incubation, and post-program mentoring to ensure that startups receive support at different levels to develop their products or services for smallholder farmers, he noted.
Mr. Markus Buerli, Director of Cooperation SDC, recognized the urgency in addressing Cambodias increasing risks of droughts and floods. He expressed his conviction that the program would bridge the gap between existing technologies and the smallholder farmers.
Mr. Julien Brewster, Regional Director Mekong at HEKS/EPER, emphasized the program’s goal to overcome the challenges faced by agricultural startups and companies in extending climate-resilient solutions to rural areas.
Ms. Melanie Mossard, CEO of Impact Hub Phnom Penh, highlighted the vital role of agriculture in the Cambodian economy and expressed her excitement for the program’s potential to drive sustainable practices.
About Collaborating Agencies:
- Khmer Enterprise (KE): Supported by the Ministry of Economy and Finance, KE is an implementation unit dedicated to the development of Cambodia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Their focus includes mobilizing resources to support entrepreneurs, innovative startups, and SMEs in Cambodia.
- Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC): Switzerlands international cooperation agency, SDC is responsible for overall coordination of development activities and humanitarian aid, aiming to reduce poverty and foster economic self-reliance.
- Nurture Project: Implemented by HEKS/EPER and CARITAS Switzerland, this project aims at building the climate resilience of smallholder farmers in four provinces in Cambodia, promoting market-based solutions.
- Impact Hub Phnom Penh: A community that nurtures impact makers with a vision to contribute to a more sustainable and innovative Cambodia.
The launch of the Khmer Agriculture Future Incubator is a critical testament to the collective effort of multiple stakeholders committed to tackling the climate challenges faced by Cambodia’s agricultural sector. By embracing innovation, partnership, and sustainable practices, this collaboration cultivates a promising path towards a resilient agricultural future in Cambodia.
Click here to apply or find out more about the Khmer Agriculture For The Future Incubator.
