The Agricultural Growing Rural Opportunities in Ukraine (AGRO) Activity
AGRO, implemented by Chemonics International, supports the transformation of Ukraine’s agricultural sector into a more modern, market-oriented, and resilient industry. AGRO strengthens agricultural market systems, promotes access to financing, and creates an enabling environment for small- and medium-sized agricultural producers (SMEs) to increase rural incomes and economic resilience and accelerate the economic development of rural Ukrainian communities. It received support from the U.S. Department of State, Office of the Assistance Coordinator for Europe, Eurasia, and Central Asia.
AGRO facilitates a series of Business-to-Business (B2B) Networking Trips to the United States for representatives from various segments of Ukraine’s agriculture sector. This is part of its focus on establishing and strengthening business linkages between Ukrainian organizations and American input and equipment suppliers, as well as other organizations interested in expanding their engagement with the Ukrainian market for their goods and services. (Link to https://www.linkedin.com/company/ukraine-agro/)
Chemonics International Inc. is a U.S.-based international development consulting firm that works with governments, businesses, and civil society organizations to promote sustainable economic growth and improve livelihoods worldwide. Founded in 1975 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., the company implements projects across sectors such as agriculture, food security, global health, education, and environmental sustainability. Chemonics is best known for managing large-scale development programs funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and other international donors. Its work often focuses on strengthening market systems, building resilient supply chains, improving access to quality inputs like seeds and fertilizers, and supporting private-sector development—particularly in emerging and conflict-affected economies. (Link to https://www.chemonics.com/)
The Seed Science Center is a globally recognized hub of excellence in seed testing, research, education, systems, and international programs. It is a leader in developing scientific evidence to inform policy that benefits the global seed trade. The Center is home to the Seed Lab, one of the largest public testing laboratories in the U.S., which has provided accurate, professional seed-testing services to growers and the seed industry for more than 130 years. It receives an average of 31,000 seed samples of crops, flowers, vegetables, and tree species each year that are tested for health, purity, germination, and traits. The Center is designated as the Administrative Unit for the National Seed Health Service by USDA APHIS. Staff and faculty affiliated with the Center conduct cutting-edge research in seed pathology, physiology, and conditioning. The Center supports the online Seed Technology and Business graduate program, which is unique in combining seed science and technology with business management courses in a rigorous, integrated curriculum. In addition, the Center provides training for seed industry professionals, researchers, students, and policymakers from across the globe through online or on-site workshops. The Center has a strong global presence and provides expertise on seed laws, regulations, and policies that facilitate the movement and trade of seeds. Link to https://www.seeds.iastate.edu