We believe that the best approach to poverty reduction and true economic growth is integrated agricultural development. Put simply, we believe in sustainable solutions. We leverage development resources to ensure local buy-in and maximize the long-term effectiveness of our programs. A cornerstone of our work is strengthening local institutions, whether they are agrodealers, associations and cooperatives or commercial bodies.

For example, from 2001 to 2005, CNFA built up Moldova’s local input supply infrastructure, opening the first 10 farm stores in Moldova with USAID funding. The project went on to establish a network of farm stores as village-level rural development centers. Today, years after that project closed, the farm store network has become one of Moldova’s largest suppliers of agricultural inputs and services, with over 80 stores. Total turnover grew from $1.1 million in 2001 to $5.8 million in 2005, and is expected to reach $7.0 million in 2006. The farm store network serves 200,000 clients with quality inputs, machinery services, credit and information.