Proposal for VC tools framework, capacity building and dissemination Jason Donovan IFPRI; Washington, D.C. 11 July 2013

Background Lots of tools for VC analysis and assessment Lots of case studies But… – Problems with tool design – Confusing use of terms and concepts across guides – Problems with tool implementation – Gaps in tool offer – Limited learning and debate How can we 1) push debates forward and 2) help make VC development more effective?

Entry points for facilitating learning on better VC analysis and development 1.Context 2.Actor 3.Research/development issue

Context: Picking the right tool for the job Context is critical for designing effective VC interventions… But guides are mostly context free Key contextual factors: – Market reach (local, national, international) – Product type (tree crops, livestock, annuals) – Pre-existing asset endowments – Governance structures (or lack thereof)

Actors Different information needs for different users NGOs: intervention design and assessment, best practices Donors: impact assessment, impact narratives Private sector: low-cost tools for taking investment decisions and understanding impact Researchers: methods, data

Cutting edge issues for VC research and development What are the key issues and how can we effectively address them: Climate change and VCs Gender and VCs VC performance Impact assessment Gaps in tool coverage