The World Bank has unveiled AgriConnect, a $14 billion initiative to revolutionize agribusiness by 2030, aiming to create jobs and drive inclusive growth in developing economies. Announced at the 2025 World Bank Group–IMF Annual Meetings under the theme “From Sectors to Systems: Building Job-Rich Economies at Scale,” AgriConnect seeks to transform smallholder farming into profit-driven enterprises.
World Bank President Ajay Banga emphasized shifting from isolated projects to building economic ecosystems, with plans to double agribusiness commitments to $9 billion annually by 2030, mobilizing an additional $5 billion. The program targets over 500 million smallholder farms, which produce 80% of global food but often lack access to markets, finance, or technology.
AgriConnect will invest in infrastructure, digital technology, and policy reforms to boost productivity, integrate farmers into value chains, and enhance financing access, reducing unemployment and hunger risks in rural areas. Banga stressed that agriculture’s job creation potential is critical, with over one billion youth entering the global workforce in the next decade.
The initiative was a key focus of discussions on job-rich economies, with global leaders like Dr. Mona Mourshed and Egypt’s Minister Dr. Rania Al-Mashat highlighting the need for aligned education, innovation, and policy. The World Bank’s Development Committee reaffirmed support for efficient, impactful development, emphasizing partnership and collaboration.
