Smallholder farmers’ access to finance in low- and middle-income countries: a rapid evidence assessment

Closed: The FCDO invited bids by 27 February 2024 to review existing research on smallholder farmers’ access to finance in low- and middle-income countries.

This funding opportunity closed on 27 February 2024.

The purpose of this Evidence Fund evaluation is to review existing research on smallholder farmers’ access to finance in low- and middle-income countries, with the goal of supporting their transition to sustainable agricultural practices.

The Rapid Evidence Assessment (REA) aims to:

  • map the current financial landscape
  • assess the impact of finance on sustainable practices
  • identify gaps in the literature – setting the stage for future research, policy, and development programmes

The initiative is driven by the need identified by the FCDO’s Investment in Forest and Sustainable Land Use 2 (IFSLU2) programme, responding to a call for targeted support to smallholders and incorporating a specific component (Component 2) for this purpose. The REA will lay the groundwork for further research and development initiatives.

What the fund will achieve

The evaluation will:

  • directly inform activities under current programmes
  • shape the design of future programmes
  • provide evidence for FCDO and the wider sector

It links to country and global HM Government strategy, aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (goal 8) and the UK Strategy on International Development and the Africa Strategy.

How to apply

Email your technical and commercial proposal to the Evidence Fund Manager [email protected] by 5pm GMT on 27 February 2024. Late bids will not be accepted.

Read the additional documents in the invitation to tender pack:

Volume 1: Invitation to tender instructions and evaluation criteria

Volume 2: Programme terms of reference

Volume 3: Application form

Volume 4: Commercial pro formas

Volume 5: Pro forma contract

Volume 6: Evidence Fund conflict of interest policy

Volume 7: Evidence Fund safeguarding policy

Volume 8: Letter and declaration to accompany tenders

Contact

Evidence Fund Manager: [email protected]

Updates to this page

Published 30 January 2024