This panel is being organized by the UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and will focus on two key challenges in the context of a “post-G8” environment: ensuring that the poor are engaged in agricultural value chains at all levels; and establishing the appropriate policy framework for private sector engagement in poverty alleviation, food security and agricultural sustainability. The panel will aim to support mutually beneficial, profitable and equitable partnerships between smallholders and agribusiness, and to ensure that the private sector's contributions support sustainability. It will address obstacles to the engagement of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) including the lack of capacity to enter into rapidly changing agricultural market demands. Outcomes from the panel will include lessons learned and good practice examples of private sector partnerships with donors, industry and suppliers to improve access to market opportunities, and policy guidance and recommendations on partnership opportunities to leverage private investments in sustainable rural and agricultural development and food security.  

date: 17 October 2012   venue: Tour and Taxis, Avenue du Port 86c Havenlaan 86c B – 1000 –   location: Brussels, Belgium   contact: Valentina Varbanova   phone: +43 (0) 1 26026 3144   e-mail: V.Varbanova@unido.org   www: http://www.unido.org/index.php?id=1003211