18 months after FFM+ launch: over 900 applications received and 300 development projects underway

18 months after FFM+ launch: over 900 applications received and 300 development projects underway

Support for the Fit For Market Plus (FFM+) programme has been designed to contribute to the transition of agriculture in the member countries of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) towards a more sustainable agricultural and food system by integrating the priority areas for action set out in the EU Green Pact’s Farm to Fork Strategy.

FFM+ has been designed and implemented as a continuation of the FFM and FFM SPS programmes and the results of COLEAD’s COVID Action Plan, which has been implemented since March 2020. The FFM+ programme supports the horticultural sector in the OACPS countries. It aims to maintain and improve the capacity of smallholder farmers, farmer groups and horticultural MSMEs to access national, regional and international markets through the progressive sustainable intensification of the horticultural sector, while adapting to changes in their operating environment due to Covid-19 and climate change.

Since the operational start of the FFM+ programme (1 July 2022, opening of online application forms for support), more than 910 applications have been received from partner beneficiaries in 54 OACPS member countries. 60% came from micro, small and medium enterprises and producer groups. More than 80% have been analysed and almost 300 development projects have already been signed with partner beneficiaries.

More than 150 training and technical assistance activities have been carried out under the programme so far. In addition, 10 online information sessions about COLEAD technical resources have been already organised with current and potential partner beneficiaries. These sessions are followed by personalised support from the COLEAD team to ensure the best use of these resources. In parallel, in order to maximise the impact of the FFM+ programme beyond formal applications for support, COLEAD’s digital resources are made publicly available through FFM+ and promoted systematically among various audiences.

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.