On May 30, 2019, Sumy hosted a forum “Niche Cultures: How to Maximize Profit per Hectare?” It brought together more than 100 farmers, representatives of small and medium-sized agro-firms, as well as representatives of executive authorities and united territorial communities, which are interested in this topic.
The Forum was organized by NGO «Council of Young Scientists» on the basis of the Sumy Business Information Center within the framework of EU4Business initiative with the support of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
During the event, the participants had the opportunity to get acquainted with modern agrotechnology of niche crops cultivation, as well as to get recommendations on forming an effective business model of cultivation of field niche crops, harvesting wild cultures and development of local fruit and berry market.
Taras Savchenko, Head of Sumy Business Information Center and forum organizer, said: «The main purpose of the forum is to provide information and consulting support to small and medium-sized agribusinesses. This support allows small businesses to plan their activities more effectively, learn about new trends and opportunities in the agrarian market. This provides competitive advantages. Local authorities should be interested in supporting small and medium-sized businesses. It should also be noted that the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development is providing grants to small and medium-sized businesses to carry out advisory projects”.
Andriy Marakhovsky, the forum speaker, Chairman of the public organization “Organic Ukraine. North”, agro-consultant, comments: «Any target meeting is very important in terms of experience exchange. At this forum, speakers make thematic speeches; each of them is interested to learn more about the cultivation of niche cultures, to establish useful relationships between market participants and organizations that are responsible for state assistance to these spheres. The communication and establishment of business relationships are very beneficial for farmers”.
Natalia Zolotaryova, the Deputy Director of “Interagrostandart” LLC, said: “Our Company has experience in participating in various forums. Niche cultures are the main topic of this event. We participate in it because we hope to find new partners, to share our own experiences, as well as to learn how to grow these crops and how to sell them. We want to find out from the producers, who are already engaged in this sphere, what the risks are and to know what the benefits are and how to get new opportunities. Niche crops are relevant for farmers today, as they are a very promising industry that makes it possible to obtain high profits in a short time with a competent approach”.
