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FarmGrow: Farm Investment Plans for Smallholder Cocoa Farmers in Ghana Midline Assessment

FarmGrow is an individualized agricultural service platform designed to assist smallholder cocoa farmers in Ghana to increase cocoa yields from 400 kg / hectare to 1500 kg / hectare over an 8- to 10-year period by leveraging long-term individual business plans and coaching techniques based on insights from behavioral economics. A midline quantitative analytics assessment using FarmGrow data and qualitative interviews conducted in November 2019 found improved adoption of some good agricultural practices, particularly in pest, disease and sanitation and weeding practices as well as limited change in yields, as was to be expected. Qualitative data indicates that more farmers are considering replanting despite the emotional and financial toll this takes. Very little intra-household collaboration and communication between spouses regarding the business plans was detected which could have negative consequences for the households, particularly among women. Farmers reported satisfaction with the process and some reported improved yields. This will be important momentum upon which to build.