Accelerated Pathways for Transformative and Sustainable Agripreneurship (APATSA)

The Accelerated Pathways for Transformative and Sustainable Agripreneurship (APATSA) Project is a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening cooperative-led agribusinesses in Malawi and positioning them as competitive, sustainable, and youth-inclusive enterprises.

In Malawi, cooperatives play a critical role in aggregating smallholder farmers, improving market access, and enhancing bargaining power. However, many secondary cooperatives face challenges related to strategic direction, financial management, branding, governance systems, and youth integration. Without strong institutional capacity, their ability to scale and compete in evolving markets remains limited.

Through funding from the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), Malawi Federation of Cooperatives (MAFECO) is implementing the Accelerated Pathways for Transformative and Sustainable Agripreneurship (APATSA) project to accelerate the transformation of selected secondary cooperatives into high-performing agribusiness entities.

Equip Group is partnering with MAFECO to provide the technical expertise, systems support, and structured capacity building required to achieve this transformation.

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The overall objective of the APATSA Project is to strengthen the institutional and entrepreneurial capacity of 200 primary cooperatives and 10 secondary cooperatives in Malawi by 2028, enabling their transition into economically viable, market-oriented enterprises that generate sustainable income and meaningful opportunities for youth empowerment.

Specifically, the project aims to:

• Improve governance and inclusiveness within 200 primary and 10 secondary cooperatives by 2028, strengthening their ability to effectively engage with market actors, buyers, and financial institutions.

• Enhance entrepreneurial and operational capacity across 210 cooperatives through tailored Business Development Services (BDS), equipping them with the systems, strategy, and skills needed for sustainable growth.

• Strengthen youth leadership and participation by building the capacity of 1,596 young people (at least 70% femaleto) actively engage in cooperative enterprises and progressively take on leadership roles by 2026.

• Capacity Building: Delivering training in business planning and strategy, marketing and sales, and financial management.  

• Business & Strategic Planning: Developing tailored business and strategic plans for each cooperative.  

• Youth Apprenticeship Program: Designing and implementing a structured apprenticeship model to increase youth participation at the secondary cooperative level.  

• Learning & Knowledge Exchange: Participating in and reporting on local and international learning visits.  

• Strategic & Operational Support: Providing ongoing advisory support to MAFECO to ensure effective project implementation.  

• Project Reporting Support: Assisting MAFECO in meeting project reporting requirements and funder expectations.

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