Structuring and strengthening a supply chain with outgrowers: example of support to Smart foods in Grenada

As part of the COLEAD Fit For Market Plus (FFM+) programme, technical assistance was recently provided to SMART FOODS Caribbean to design and initiate the implementation of a structured support programme for its supplying farmers in Grenada.

The intervention aimed to develop a comprehensive and practical operational framework enabling the company to secure a reliable supply of high-quality raw materials, while building sustainable and mutually beneficial relationships with local producers. It resulted in the development of a full set of tools covering farmer identification, assessment, monitoring systems and contractual arrangements.

A field mission enabled direct engagement with farmers, testing of the proposed tools in real conditions, and strengthening of the SMART FOODS team’s capacities. This phase led to a complete implementation package, complemented by a detailed action plan translating strategic recommendations into concrete steps.

Building on this momentum, the company has already initiated follow-up actions. Engagement is ongoing with producers in Grenada as well as in neighbouring islands such as Tobago and Saint Lucia, where interest in the programme is strong. At the same time, discussions with potential buyers, particularly in Trinidad and Tobago, are helping to clarify market demand and guide production planning.

To meet its supply objectives, SMART FOODS estimates that several thousand passion fruit vines will need to be established. Securing financing for key investments — particularly farm infrastructure — is now a priority, alongside further refining the technical and operational model.

The next phase of support will focus on strengthening the financial dimension of the programme, including economic viability, pricing structures and investment planning. These elements will be critical to ensure the long-term sustainability and scalability of the initiative.

This activity is supported by the Fit For Market Plus (FFM+) programme, implemented by COLEAD within the Framework of Development Cooperation between the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) and the European Union. This publication receives financial support from the European Union and the OACPS. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of COLEAD and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union or the OACPS.