
Home / Where We Work / Myanmar / IMOW / Learning Series
A set of learning papers and technical guides that showcase the results of MEDA’s Improving Market Opportunities for Women (IMOW) project, which supported women small producers. The series provides insights into supporting women farmers, working with the private sector to encourage market linkages, and promoting the use of good agricultural practices.
In 2015, MEDA implemented its six-year IMOW project, which focused on the rice and vegetable value chains in Kayin State and the vegetable value chain in Shan State. IMOW’s work centered on sustainable agriculture, financial and market linkages, women’s economic empowerment (WEE), and the environment. This project was funded through Global Affairs Canada and implemented in partnership with both local Key Facilitating Partners (KFPs) and Private Sector Development (PSD) partners.
MEDA’s work to increase women’s participation in Myanmar’s evolving economic landscape has led to many learnings about the challenges of working in emerging markets. This series highlights approaches to project design, market-led strategies for reaching women small producers and promoting environmentally-friendly farming.
The IMOW project operated from 2015 to 2021. The instability that resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic and the military coup both impacted Myanmar’s private sector activities and IMOW’s larger project operations. Most of the learning products included in this series are focused on the project results prior to these crises.
IMOW’s goal was to contribute to Myanmar’s economic growth by increasing women’s participation in the country’s evolving economy. The project partnered with women to help them become active, respected, and empowered economic actors and leaders in their communities.
The project supported over 52,000 women in Shan and Kayin states, and worked with local partners to improve the standard of living and the business environment for another 194,896 indirect clients.
We welcome your comments and feedback on the materials. Contact us at info@meda.org.
Mennonite Economic Development Associates is an international economic development organization that creates business solutions to poverty.
MEDA International is a Canadian non-share capital not-for-profit corporation incorporated under the Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act.
Mennonite Economic Development Associates is a 501(c)(3) status non-profit organization in the United States: EIN 23-7398678.
Mennonite Economic Development Associates of Canada is a registered charity in Canada: No. 107 691 057 RR0001.
© 2023 Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA). All Rights Reserved.