The BASATINE program made waves at the recently concluded Agrifood Innovation Days (AFID2023), delivering a powerful boost to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Lebanon’s agrifood sector. With a focus on empowering entrepreneurs and fostering partnerships, BASATINE played a vital role in showcasing SME products, facilitating networking opportunities, and driving the growth of the industry.
Under the umbrella of AFID, 15 deserving SMEs were granted a coveted platform to display their innovative products at the prestigious BASATINE booth. The diverse array of offerings ranged from tantalizing fresh pasta and flavorful herbs and condiments to delectable pickled products, tomato-based creations, wheat-based goods, and fresh-cut, sanitized, and packaged veggies. The booth became a bustling hub of entrepreneurial spirit and gastronomic ingenuity, captivating the attention of attendees and showcasing the immense potential of Lebanon’s agrifood sector.
The BASATINE program went above and beyond by not only supporting SMEs that met the criteria for individual booths but also extending its support to those who didn’t. By including their products in the gift bags and a dedicated common booth or counter, BASATINE ensured that every entrepreneur had an opportunity to shine and connect with potential customers and collaborators. This collective approach fostered a sense of unity and camaraderie among the participants, exemplifying the spirit of collaboration and mutual growth.
One of the standout events organized by BASATINE was the highly successful matchmaking session, which brought together nearly 70 farmers, and 22 SMEs, with 78 Berytech meetings taking place and an additional 48 meetings specifically between Mercy Corps SMEs and Farmers, totaling an impressive 126 meetings. The matchmaking sessions proved to be a catalyst for valuable connections and future collaborations. The exchange of ideas, challenges, and aspirations sparked inspiration and opened doors for mutually beneficial endeavors, solidifying the matchmaking session as a dynamic platform for meaningful discussions and partnerships.
The BASATINE program’s unwavering commitment to the growth and sustainability of Lebanon’s agrifood industry has positioned it as a driving force in the sector. By empowering SMEs, facilitating partnerships, and promoting innovation, BASATINE has become a beacon of hope and a catalyst for progress. The program’s efforts during AFID not only provided visibility and support to budding entrepreneurs but also inspired a renewed sense of determination and resilience among all participants.
The success of the BASATINE program at AFID serves as a powerful reminder that with the right support, collaboration, and a shared vision, the agrifood industry in Lebanon can flourish. By nurturing local talent, encouraging innovation, and fostering partnerships, BASATINE continues to ignite the spark of entrepreneurial excellence, paving the way for a prosperous and sustainable future.
This BASATINE programme is supported by l’Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and a consortium made of six NGOs: CARE, Mercy Corps, Berytech Foundation, Georges N. Frem Foundation, Lebanese Organization for Studies and Training and Al Majmoua.
