Agriculture and Rural Development

We work with farmers, for example to link farmers to others in the value chain, such as input suppliers, buyers, credit, etc. Sometimes this will involve support for group marketing and cooperative formation; at other times, we work with individuals and government extension workers. 

FCG has long experience in implementing large, multi-sector rural development projects covering the whole agrifood system, from production to marketing of the products and consideration of the supportive environment.

Our work began in 1970 with agricultural development in the Asia-Pacific region.

As a tool for sustainable development, we specialize in participatory development processes, both at the grassroots and decision-making levels. Participatory approaches encourage the inclusion of the project beneficiaries in all the processes of programme development, increasing ownership and empowering project beneficiaries. 

We provide technical assistance particularly in the following fields:

• Agriculture, aquaculture and fisheries extension and training, mentoring, production of guidelines and manuals, and organising discussion forums
• Community/Livelihood development and poverty reduction
• Rural entrepreneurship and diversification of rural economies
• Development of cooperatives and farmer groups, and improving financial access and planning for farmers
• Agribusiness and value chain development
• Nutrition training 
• Sustainable natural resources management and environmental protection
• Watersheds / river basin management and protection
• Use of water for agriculture, including micro-irrigation, irrigation systems, water for livestock
• Land use planning and administration
• Institutional development and capacity building, with local and national governments, supporting local actors to formulate inclusive and equitable plans, policies, strategies and regulatory frameworks to strengthen the agricultural sector
• Rural infrastructure development