Business models and key success drivers of agtech start-ups

This interpretative phenomenological research focuses on youth-led companies offering digital services to the agrifood sector in West Africa (analyses are relevant for Africa as a whole). Research questions were to understand the business models adopted by these start-ups; how their business models and business model innovation lead to business success; other key drivers that can support the achievement of success.

Besides desk research insights, and experts views, the research focuses on twelve start-ups (anonymised) offering services to agro-food customers and the value chain, using tools including mobile phones, drones, e-commerce platforms from seven countries, selected following a non-probability, purposive sampling technique, from finalists and winners of international competitions. They deploy different business models, serving business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-customers (B2C) clients. Business and policy issues they face have been discussed and analysed in details as well as strategies they are using in their pathways to success.

Recommendations to young start-ups and stakeholders interested in supporting them have been included.

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