EDFI Management Company Selects COLEAD to Deliver Technical Assistance to Boost Sustainable Agriculture
Empowering Investee Companies Through Strategic Partnership
Brussels, Belgium – 17 July 2024 – EDFI Management Company (EDFI MC) announced today signature of the Technical Assistance Consultancy Cooperation Agreement with COLEAD (COmmittee Linking Entrepreneurship-Agriculture-Development). This agreement, valued at a maximum of €4 million over four years, will enable EDFI MC to provide critical technical support to investee companies in the agricultural sector across emerging and developing countries.
EDFI MC, an impact driven financial service provider funded by the EU, launched a competitive tender process in November 2023 to identify a qualified technical assistance provider. Through a rigorous selection process, COLEAD emerged as the frontrunner, demonstrating a strong track record and expertise in supporting early-stage and small businesses within the agricultural value chain.
“We are partnering with COLEAD to deliver this impactful technical assistance program,” said Rodrigo Madrazo, Chief Executive Officer at EDFI MC. “Their in-depth knowledge of the agricultural sector, particularly in low and middle-income countries, and their dedication to empowering local businesses perfectly align with our mission to promote sustainable growth in developing countries.”
The collaboratively designed technical assistance services will focus on improving the financial, environmental, and social performance of EDFI MC investee companies. This pre- and post-investment support will equip these businesses with the tools and resources they need to achieve long-term success and contribute to a more sustainable food system.
“COLEAD is honoured to be selected by EDFI MC for this crucial initiative,” said Jeremy Knops, Délégué Général at COLEAD. “As a private sector, not-for-profit association, COLEAD designs, manages, and implements development programs specifically focused on inclusive and sustainable agriculture. We are confident that by combining our expertise in technical assistance, vocational training, and technical support services with EDFI MC’s financial resources, we can make a significant difference in the lives of smallholder farmers and contribute to a more secure and sustainable future.”
COLEAD offers technical assistance, training, and support that spans research and innovation brokerage, regulations and standards, market insights, networking, and access to finance. Their commitment to continuous improvement through education (ISO 21001 certified) and partnerships positions them perfectly to partner with EDFI MC on this impactful initiative for sustainable agriculture.
About EDFI Management Company:
EDFI Management Company is a multilaterally owned impact asset manager which delivers innovative development finance solutions that enable European DFIs, development banks and private sector investors to increase the scale and impact of their work. The company focuses on business models, technologies, and geographies where other investors have not been able to operate at the desired scale given their resources and investment criteria. For more information, visit www.edfimc.eu.
About Colead
COLEAD (COmmittee Linking Entrepreneurship-Agriculture-Development) is a network of companies, professional organizations, and experts committed to inclusive and sustainable agriculture. As a private sector, not-for-profit organization, COLEAD (former COLEACP) designs, manages, and implements development programs that directly target the SDGs. They offer a comprehensive suite of services including technical assistance, vocational training, and support services to empower actors across the agricultural value chain. COLEAD’s ISO 21001 certification demonstrates their dedication to developing skills and expertise in sustainable agriculture. Their active collaboration with other organizations further strengthens their position as a leader in driving innovation and achieving shared development goals. For more information visit https://www.colead.link.