WINNOVATION

Success in the marketplace of ideas

Innovation has long been a hallmark of IDE’s work. Creating value for farmers living on tiny plots of land in poor countries requires fresh thinking and creative approaches. While we are driven first and foremost by the priorities and choices of farmers in the marketplace, it is gratifying to receive recognition in the marketplace of ideas – especially when that recognition includes a substantial financial investment in our work.

IDE Cambodia was selected as a winner of the World Bank Development Marketplace 2008 competition. A total of 22 winners were selected from a field of nearly 1,800 entrants. The award brings well-deserved recognition to IDE Cambodia’s efforts to develop a network of private extension agents – local entrepreneurs who deliver value to farmers by offering affordable products and extension services. The recognition includes a $200,000 grant to further develop the business model and support system for these private agents.

The World Bank is not the only organization investing in this innovative approach to boost small-plot production in Cambodia. Earlier this year, the Canadian International Development Agency committed $500,000 to the project and the British Department for International Development approved $180,000.

We are excited about these opportunities to create more value for small-scale producers in Cambodia. Not only will the grants we have received this year enable nearly 4,000 rural families to increase their annual income by at least $250; they also offer us the opportunity to develop a business model and platform to scale up our approach to the national level.

You also have a chance to get involved. The CIDA grant we have received requires that we raise $150,000 in matching funds from Canadian donors over the next two years. With the matching funds from the Canadian government, a $125 donation will help to bring two rural Cambodian families out of poverty. Any amount is an investment in the innovation and success that has driven IDE for more than 25 years.