Scaling Inclusive Finance for Youth-led Agribusinesses

Despite the rising number of innovative young men and women agripreneurs, access to finance remains a critical bottleneck, particularly among the "missing middle”- SMEs too large for microfinance but unable to access loans from commercial banks. The session will examine innovative financing mechanisms to boost youth-led agribusiness development including value chain financing, market linkages, private equity, and venture capital. It will also explore the role of a conducive business environment, including PPPs, for delivery of inclusive finance.

The session will bring together youth, private and financial sector players, and other stakeholders to unpack gaps and opportunities in fostering a more youth-inclusive, sustainable agribusiness sector.