WASHINGTON, DC, March 14, 2025 — The World Bank has approved a $120 million financing package to support the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, in enhancing climate resilience and improving market access for family farmers. The Santa Catarina Rural Development Project for Sustainability and Innovation aims to strengthen agricultural sustainability, promote climate-smart farming practices, and boost economic inclusion in one of Brazil’s key agricultural regions.
This initiative is the second phase of the Transforming Brazil’s Agrifood System program, a $1.6 billion, 10-year initiative approved on November 7, 2024. The program is designed to support 421,000 family farmers across Brazil by increasing agrifood productivity, improving food and nutrition security, expanding market access, promoting sustainable management of natural resources, and strengthening climate resilience.
Santa Catarina’s agricultural sector plays a crucial role in Brazil’s economy, with family farming representing a significant share of rural livelihoods. However, the state faces major challenges, including climate-related risks such as droughts and floods, limited access to financial resources for small-scale farmers, and disparities in market participation. The project will directly benefit 25,000 family farmers by providing technical assistance, access to climate-smart agricultural (CSA) technologies, and improved rural infrastructure to enhance market connectivity.
"The World Bank is committed to fostering the sustainable transformation of Brazil's agrifood system. Through the Transforming Brazil’s Agrifood System program, we are now extending our reach to Santa Catarina, supporting the state in developing a more resilient and inclusive agricultural sector," said Johannes Zutt, World Bank Country Director for Brazil. "This initiative will enhance sustainable farming practices and create opportunities for family farmers to thrive in competitive markets."
Key Project Highlights:
- Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA): The initiative will provide funding, training, and technical support for family farmers to adopt sustainable agricultural practices, reduce environmental impact, and improve productivity.
- Strengthening Agricultural Services: Investments will be made in rural infrastructure, research and innovation, technical assistance, digitalization and food safety measures to enhance competitiveness and resilience.
- Market Access and Inclusion: The program will facilitate better market integration for family farmers, prioritizing women, youth, and traditional communities.
Aligned with Brazil’s broader climate and economic development goals, this initiative will foster long-term sustainability in Santa Catarina’s agricultural sector while promoting economic resilience and social inclusion.
By modernizing agricultural practices and expanding access to essential services, the Santa Catarina Rural Development Project will contribute to a stronger, more sustainable future for family farmers and rural communities across the state and throughout Brazil as part of the Transforming Brazil’s Agrifood System program.
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Contact details
Brasilia
Sidrônio Henrique
sgomesdearaujo@worldbankgroup.org
Washington, DC
Yuri Szabo Yamashita
yszaboyamashita@worldbank.org
