Farmer-managed innovation funds are being piloted in several countries to give smallholder farmers more control over agricultural research and development funding. These funds allow farmers to submit proposals for experiments and learning activities that address local priorities. Farmers then manage the selection process and oversee the funded activities. Evaluations show these funds have strengthened farmer organizations, increased farmer engagement in innovation, and stimulated interest from development organizations in supporting farmer-led research. However, fully implementing and scaling up such funds requires ongoing testing and efforts to engage more advisory services and scientists.

1. Farmer-managed innovation funds drive multi-stakeholder learning processes Ann Waters-Bayer P ROLINNOVA / ETC AgriCulture

9. Example: Current mechanism in Ambo, Ethiopia FMC Local Level Experimenting farmers Pre-screening by local FMC Proposals Proposals FMC Local Level FMC Local Level FMC Local Level FMC Local Level ERSHA hosts Fund Management Committee (FMC) Vetting by FMC FMC that vets proposals consists of people from the 5 sub-districts ERSHA (Ethiopia Rural Self-Help Association): LISF coordinator plays advisory role in vetting committee and in monitoring AgriService Ethiopia (ASE): P ROLINNOVA Ethiopia Secretariat Legend Money Information People

10. LISF grants made in 8 pilot countries 2005–10 Country Applications received Percentage approved % female grantees Grant size (USD) Cambodia 193 69% 39% 10 – 100 Ethiopia 118 43% 14% 100 – 300 Ghana 265 64% 27% 30 – 300 Kenya 103 22% >50% 50 – 250 Nepal 63 38% 30% 50 – 750 South Africa 72 35% 53% 700 – 2300 Tanzania 49 78% Mixed groups 500 – 1000 Uganda 124 68% Mixed groups 25 – 120