Stakeholder survey: improving the investment readiness of farmer cooperatives in Cambodia

A SSNUP-coordinated perception survey of project beneficiaries showed that cooperatives gained improved access to financing from the microfinance institution Chamroeun while the farmers enjoyed better crop yields thanks to better inputs and training.

While there are more than 1,200 smallholder farmer cooperatives in Cambodia, only a small portion is eligible for commercial loans to finance their operations. To address this situation, SSNUP co-funded a project by Oikocredit to help cooperatives to access financing from the microfinance institution Chamroeun Microfinance Plc and promote sustainable growth in the agricultural sector. 46 cooperatives and 16,345 smallholder farmers benefited from the project.

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The project supported Chamroeun in improving cooperatives' investment readiness through tailored financial products and strengthened business and financial management. As a result, Chamroeun is now the leading financial service provider for smallholder farmer cooperatives in Cambodia. Customers are highly appreciative of the effective and accessible financial support, as well as their tailored capacity development programme.

Survey shows benefits for both cooperatives and farmers

To assess the impact of the project, SSNUP coordinated a perception survey by 60decibels among 30 benefiting cooperatives and 228 associated farmers.

The survey found that Chamroeun's support significantly improved the business and loan management of the cooperatives. They gained improved access to financing, with 87% reporting better opportunities, often with improved loan terms. This in turn led to increased business revenue and greater farmer engagement.

The members of these cooperatives benefited from additional services, particularly in terms of market access, input purchases and training. As a result, 79% of the farmers reported an improved quality of life thanks to better crop yields, financial stability, enhanced knowledge, improved animal husbandry and access to quality inputs.