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Fintech innovation for smallholder agriculture

A review of experiences

Year of publication 2023

Place of publication Rome, Italy ;

Pages 80 p.

Author Benni, N.

Publisher FAO ;

Product type Book (stand-alone)

ISBN 978-92-5-138474-9

Synopsis (short abstract) The study is a result of the growing interest on the part of FAO on the analysis and use of financial technology (fintech) applications as effective enablers of financial inclusion for smallholder farmers, as well as that of other financially underserved actors active in the agricultural value chains of developing and emerging countries. Many of these countries have witnessed, in recent years, an exponential rise in the number and variety of fintech start-ups focused on the agriculture sector, which have emerged with the specific intent of seizing the enormous clientele segment composed of small-scale rural actors whose financial needs are not adequately serviced by traditional financial institutions, such as commercial banks, microfinance institutions, and financial cooperativesThe objective of this publication is to analyse and illustrate some of the most interesting business models and innovations brought forward by fintech companies that have sought to address the common financing constraints associated to small-scale agriculture all around the world, showcasing in particular the challenges they have faced to become profitable and sustainable, the solutions they have found to overcome such challenges, the positive developmental externalities that they have generated through their activity, and the possible lessons that can be drawn from their experience which can inform further replications or adaptations of their specific model in other contexts.

Cite this content as:

Benni, N. 2023. Fintech innovation for smallholder agriculture – A review of experiences. Rome, FAO.

https://doi.org/10.4060/cc9117en

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Language English

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