Zamorano and IDB Lab sign agreement to create AgroHub, an innovation and agrifood entrepreneurship platform in Central America

The Pan-American Agricultural School Zamorano and IDB Lab, the innovation division of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), have signed a significant agreement to establish AgroHub: Innovation and Agrifood Entrepreneurship. This groundbreaking project aims to transform the agrifood ecosystem in Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador, with a special focus on small-scale farmers, sustainability, and climate resilience.

The agreement was signed at the IDB Honduras offices by Dr. Ana Maier, Vice President and Academic Dean of Zamorano, and María José Jarquín, IDB Group representative in Honduras. The event was also attended by Herbert Gaekel, Vice President of Operations and Finance; Alejandro Osorio, Donor Officer for Honduras; and Emily Moradel, Director of Strategy and Innovation at Zamorano.

AgroHub will serve as a hub for generating knowledge, promoting technological solutions, and supporting the development of agrifood ventures, with a joint investment of $1.8 million.

“This agreement marks a milestone in strengthening innovation and entrepreneurship in our region. At Zamorano, we are committed to leading this effort, working closely with our partners and communities to create a real and lasting impact,” said Dr. Maier during the signing ceremony.

The AgroHub will operate under the principles of sustainability and inclusion, with expected outcomes including the development of 10 innovative ventures, the training of 3,000 key players in the agrifood ecosystem, and the implementation of technologies that enhance the sector’s productivity and resilience.

María José Jarquín from the IDB Group highlighted the importance of the project: “AgroHub is a clear example of how collaboration between institutions can accelerate the transformation of strategic sectors like agrifood, generating benefits for the most vulnerable people and strengthening the region’s value chains.”

“This agreement strengthens the mission of Zamorano and IDB Lab to promote innovative solutions that address the challenges of climate change, low productivity, and food insecurity in Central America,” added Herbert Gaekel, Vice President of Operations and Finance at Zamorano.

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