In the heart of East and Southern Africa, a quiet revolution is taking root, one that could reshape the region’s food systems and drive sustainable growth. At the forefront of this transformation are business accelerators, which are proving to be powerful catalysts for change. A recent study published in *Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems* (translated to English as *Frontiers in Sustainable Food Production Systems*) sheds light on the pivotal role these accelerators play in supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across food systems value chains.
The research, led by Denise P. Lozano Lazo of WorldFish in Penang, Malaysia, focuses on the CGIAR Food Systems Accelerator (CFSA), a program designed to scale climate-smart innovations in agribusinesses. The study reveals that accelerators, originally from the corporate and tech sectors, are now emerging as key players in agriculture and food systems, particularly in vulnerable regions like East and Southern Africa (ESA).
Through interviews with agribusiness founders, the study highlights significant improvements in entrepreneurial skills, partnership opportunities, and organizational capabilities. “The accelerators provide a unique blend of mentorship, technical support, and networking opportunities that are crucial for SMEs to thrive,” says Lozano Lazo. This tailored approach enhances investment readiness and technical capabilities, ultimately driving transformative innovations in the food systems.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. By fostering the growth of SMEs, accelerators contribute to poverty reduction, food security, and climate adaptation. “The potential of non-profit accelerators in fostering food systems transformation is immense,” Lozano Lazo emphasizes. “Expanding such programs and studying their long-term impacts is crucial for driving sustainable growth in food systems in the Global South.”
The study also underscores the challenges that remain, particularly financial constraints and the need for a more enabling environment. However, the positive outcomes observed in the CFSA’s first cohort suggest that accelerators can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of food systems in developing countries.
As the world grapples with the urgent need to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and fulfill the Paris Agreement commitments, the role of business accelerators in driving food systems transformations cannot be overstated. This research not only highlights the potential of accelerators but also sets the stage for future developments in the field, offering a beacon of hope for sustainable growth and resilience in the face of climate change.
In the words of Lozano Lazo, “The journey is just beginning, and the possibilities are endless.” As we look to the future, the role of accelerators in shaping the food systems of tomorrow will be a story worth watching.