Venu: It’s great to be here, Spiffy! IRRI is dedicated to abolishing poverty and hunger among people and populations that depend on rice-based agri-food systems. Through our work and partnerships, we aim to improve the health and welfare of rice farmers and consumers, promote environmental sustainability in a world challenged by climate change, and support the empowerment of women and youth in the rice industry. Our unit manages the International Rice Genebank (IRG), which conserves the world’s largest collection of rice genetic diversity.
Chantel: Thanks for having me, Spiffy! Indigeponics provides educational resources for communities to grow their own food using sustainable growing systems, like hydroponic systems. In the past, we had a demonstrational greenhouse that encouraged communities to interact with plants in a unique space that combines science, technology, and culture from an indigenous perspective. Currently, we provide free resources for communities about the basics of hydroponics, plant needs like light, nutrition, and water, and different types of hydroponic systems. Overall, our goal is to continue help others grow tasty food that is easily accessible and culturally relevant to bring communities together through food and kindness.
Michael: Thanks for having me, Spiffy! Agpreneur tackles the challenge of post-harvest losses, limited market access, and financial constraints facing smallholder farmers. We provide integrated tech solutions such as storage, market linkage, and credit services, enhancing farm profitability, and sustainability.
