Three early-stage enterprises from Laos, Timor-Leste, and the Philippines will present their community-driven, climate-smart agriculture solutions at the SAFE Impact Showcase on 3 October 2025.
The event highlights how innovation at the grassroots level can build resilience against food insecurity and climate change in Southeast Asia.
The showcase marks the culmination of the Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security Enhancement (SAFE) Acceleration Program, implemented by Villgro Philippines in partnership with the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA).
Over the past three months, the program has helped agritech and agri-enterprises refine business models, strengthen investment readiness, and scale inclusive, sustainable solutions.
"Real transformation in food systems begins when those who produce our food are no longer treated as beneficiaries, but as builders of the future," said Priya Thachadi, Co-founder and CEO of Villgro Philippines. "Agri-entrepreneurs across the region are leading this change. What they need isn't direction—it's support, visibility, and capital."
Enterprises to watch:
- Sansli Green (Timor-Leste): Connecting smallholder farmers to markets and school meal programs while promoting organic practices and women's leadership in agriculture.
- Katuparan Producers Cooperative (Philippines): A farmer-led cooperative in La Union producing sustainable pet food and therapeutic foods from kamote, peanuts, and cacao, boosting farmer incomes and promoting regenerative agriculture.
- The Green (Laos): Supporting rural and women-led farms with poultry production, veterinary services, and cold-chain solutions to reduce chick mortality and raise farmer incomes.
Building resilience from the ground up
The SAFE Acceleration Program equips early-stage enterprises to design sustainable, scalable business models that address food security and climate resilience while empowering marginalised groups such as farmers, fisherfolk, women, and indigenous peoples.
"Innovation rooted in community and sustainability is key to transforming Southeast Asia's agri-food systems," said Atty. Eric Reynoso, Program Head, Emerging Innovation for Growth Department, SEARCA. "This year's cohort shows how social innovations—when backed by the right support—can empower rural communities, especially women and youth, to lead climate-smart, inclusive growth."
Through expert mentorship, deep-dive learning sessions, and access to Villgro Philippines' Impact Pioneers Network, the cohort is now ready to connect with funders, partners, and stakeholders who can help expand their reach. Organisations interested in partnerships can reach out at .
Event details
The SAFE Impact Showcase will be held on October 3, 2025, at 2:00 PM (GMT+8) via Zoom. Funders, investors, and stakeholders are invited to register here: https://luma.com/bv7ndvoc.
Learn more about the SAFE Program: https://villgrophilippines.org/safe
For media inquiries or partnership opportunities, contact:
Ryan Arcadio
Communications Manager, Villgro Philippines