Gender-Responsive Business Planning for Commercial Seed Production of Vegetatively Propagated Crops (VPCs)

This brief presents outcomes from a regional workshop on gender-responsive business planning for commercial seed production of vegetatively propagated crops (VPCs)—including cassava, banana, and sweetpotato—held in Kampala, Uganda, from 7–10 July 2025. Organized by the International Potato Center (CIP) and NARO under the PROSSIVA project, the workshop trained 20 participants on integrating gender and inclusion into seed business models using tools such as the Value Proposition Canvas, Business Model Canvas, and Business Investment Decision (BID) tool. Results revealed that women and youth constitute distinct buyer groups with specific preferences for smaller seed packs, flexible pricing, and trust-based purchasing. Inclusive business strategies, digital marketing, and participatory quality assurance were found to improve profitability, resilience, and market reach. The study concludes that gender equity is not only a social goal but also a practical business advantage for VPC seed systems.