1. Introduction

AGROREF invites reputable organizations, institutions, networks, and private sector actors to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to join as Affiliate Members.

While AGROREF is not a membership-based organization, it strategically admits selected institutions as Affiliate Members to strengthen collaboration, innovation, knowledge exchange, and sector-wide impact within the agricultural and rural development ecosystem.

Affiliate membership does not constitute ownership, governance rights, or legal partnership, but provides structured collaboration and engagement opportunities.

2. Purpose of the Expression of Interest

This EOI seeks to:

• Identify organizations aligned with AGROREF’s mission and values
• Establish formal collaboration frameworks
• Expand AGROREF’s technical and geographic reach
• Foster innovation and knowledge-sharing partnership

3. Eligibility Criteria

Organizations eligible to apply include:

• Agricultural producer organizations
• Research and academic institutions
• NGOs and development agencies
• Agribusiness companies and private sector actors
• Financial institutions supporting agriculture
• Government agencies and parastatals
• Technology and innovation hubs
• Regional and international development partners

Applicants must demonstrate:

• Legal registration and operational legitimacy
• Proven experience in agriculture or related sectors
• Alignment with AGROREF’s objectives
• Commitment to ethical and sustainable practices

4. Benefits of Affiliate Membership

Organizations admitted as Affiliate Members of AGROREF will benefit from:

 Strategic Visibility

• Recognition as an AGROREF Affiliate Member
• Inclusion on AGROREF’s website and publications
• Branding opportunities during events and programs

Networking & Partnerships

• Access to AGROREF’s multi-sector partner network
• Participation in high-level stakeholder forums
• Opportunities for joint ventures and consortia building

Project Collaboration

• Eligibility to participate in AGROREF-led projects
• Opportunities for co-creation of grant proposals
• Technical collaboration on research and innovation initiatives

Knowledge & Capacity Development

• Access to research findings and policy briefs
• Participation in trainings, workshops, and webinars
• Technical advisory support and shared expertise

Market & Investment Linkages

• Exposure to investors and funding partners
• Support in accessing regional and international markets
• Business matchmaking opportunities

Policy & Advocacy Engagement

• Participation in policy dialogues and roundtables
• Contribution to sector position papers and advocacy initiatives

5. Expectations of Affiliate Members

Affiliate Members are expected to:

• Uphold AGROREF’s values and ethical standards
• Participate actively in collaborative initiatives
• Share relevant knowledge and expertise
• Promote AGROREF initiatives within their networks
• Provide periodic updates on joint activities

6. Nature of the Relationship

Affiliate Membership:

• Does not confer governance authority within AGROREF
• Does not imply financial obligation unless otherwise agreed
• Is subject to periodic review
• May be terminated by either party with written notice

A formal Affiliate Collaboration Agreement will define specific areas of cooperation.

7. Submission Requirements

Interested organizations should submit:

1. Organizational profile (including registration details)
2. Description of relevant experience and expertise
3. Statement of alignment with AGROREF’s mission
4. Proposed areas of collaboration
5. Contact details of authorized representative

8. Evaluation Process

Submissions will be evaluated based on:

• Strategic alignment
• Technical capacity
• Geographic and sector relevance
• Potential for mutual value creation

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for further engagement.

9. Submission Details

EOIs should be submitted electronically in PDF format to: info@agroref.org

Subject Line: Expression of Interest – Affiliate Membership

Disclaimer

Submission of an Expression of Interest does not guarantee admission as an Affiliate Member. AGROREF reserves the right to accept or decline applications at its discretion.