Autumn 2025, HollandDoor and van Hall Larenstein successfully delivered a comprehensive capacity-building programme for twelve officers from the SMART project from Maharashtra, India. The initiative aimed to strengthen Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) by deepening participants’ understanding of value chain management, marketing and sales – essential skills for creating more sustainable and profitable farmer-led enterprises.
From inspiration in the Netherlands…
Between 15 September and 3 October 2025, the SMART officers took part in an intensive three-week training programme in the Netherlands, organized jointly by HollandDoor, Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences and the Agricultural Development Trust (ADT) Baramati. Through a blend of classroom workshops, case studies and company visits, participants explored Dutch best practices in cooperative management, market-driven farming and value chain innovation. Visits to leading companies such as Royal FloraHolland, SunFresh and TomSelect provided first-hand insights into how farmers, traders and processors collaborate to create efficient, transparent and high-value agri-food chains.
…to application in India
Building on this foundation, the group reconvened in India in late November for a three-day strategic workshop in Baramati. Working alongside with Van Hall Larenstein and HollandDoor experts, they co-developed a training toolkit and practical exercises designed for over 800 FPOs across Maharashtra. These resources will help local trainers guide FPOs towards adopting a “from push to pull” marketing mindset – shifting from simply producing crops to proactively meeting market demands.
A growing ripple effect
In the coming year, the twelve trained officers will take on roles as FPO coaches and facilitators, supporting hundreds of farmer groups in developing business models, strengthening partnerships and improving market access. This initiative demonstrates how international learning exchanges can empower local institutions to drive inclusive, market-oriented rural transformation.
Through this programme, HollandDoor and its partners remain committed to a shared vision: empowering farmers to build stronger value chains and better futures.
For more information, please contact Engelie Beenen or Niek Botden
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