As a service provider, Atano Research and Consulting supports clients with a broad spectrum of in-depth expertise at the various stages of research. In doing so, we always act in a practice-, client- and future-oriented manner. We can help you implement your project successfully in Kenya and across Africa. This is achieved through:
Research design and development
Our wide knowledge of the African context, including the Kenyan agri-food system, enables us to provide our clients with key inputs to their concept ideas and strengthening their research design and activities implementation plans in aspect which include : - - Advising on study sites. - Input to the establishment of key evidence gaps through literature/desk review & consultation with key stakeholders. - Input to research design, potential respondents and data collection methods. - Input to the study instruments, including formulating/refining study tools and tools pre-testing and - Linking our clients with potential local collaborators. Overall, we offer technical and context-specific input to project design, co-design and development. Additionally, we provide sector-specific expertise and assist our clients in gathering strong evidence to strengthen their concept idea.
Monitoring and Evaluation
We assist our clients in developing strong project monitoring and evaluation plans, including selection of strong key project monitoring indicators and designing tools to capture related data. We then use highly innovative approaches to implement project monitoring and evaluation to identify the effectiveness of key program components. The aim is to provide an independent and true picture of projects particularly whether the project delivered expected outcomes and value to its beneficiaries. The services are categorized into:- - Designing key performance indicators and tools to capture related data. - Baseline Studies/Situational Analysis - Process Evaluation - Mid-term Evaluation Studies - Final/Impact Evaluation
Data collection and analysis
Atano Research and Consulting implement field activities using both qualitative and quantitative research methods. We have experience working in different contexts, including farm, households, private and public institutions, NGOs, and Donors for agricultural activities in Kenya. Our teams have the ability to manage large field teams working concurrently in different geographical areas to collect high-quality data within the clients’ deadlines. We achieve this by; - utilizing highly qualified and committed data collectors and field supervisors, - investing in thorough training of our field teams, - having good data quality monitoring and assurance systems, and - doing thorough preparations of the study sites before initiating field activities.
Result Dissemination
Atano Research and Consulting organizes dissemination meetings and/or participate in presenting study findings in various venues, including in local, national and international conferences. Our talented team assist in compiling material into excellent presentations that deliver a clear and concise message to and on behalf of our clients.
Knowledge Transfer
Atano Research and Consulting provides high quality training services in various data collection and management skills. We provide our trainees with the ability to have a good understanding of : - the research aims and objectives. - the information to be collected under each question in the data collection tools, and - the research ethics and legal requirements.
Across the Agrifood Value Chain, Atano Research and Consulting services focus on the following key areas :
Customer-Facing-Initiatives in the Retail Sector
In the agrifood retail sector, customer-facing initiatives focus on building trust, enhancing the customer experience, and maximizing customer lifetime value. This involves transparent pricing, reliable product quality, exceptional customer service, personalized interactions, and loyalty programs. Furthermore, initiatives like local sourcing, sustainability efforts, and supply chain resilience are crucial for the long-term viability of the sector.
Digital and Technological Migration
The agrifood sector is undergoing a significant digital and technological migration, driven by the rise of digital platforms and the ability to leverage data for improved efficiency and market access. This transformation offers opportunities to reduce transaction costs, improve market access for farmers, enhance quality control, and strengthen traceability within the agrifood supply chain. However, it also presents challenges related to data governance, competition, and the equitable adoption of technologies.
Business-to-Customer Technological Enablement
Technological enablement in the agri-food sector allows businesses to directly reach customers, improve supply chain efficiency, and enhance customer experience. E-commerce platforms, supply chain management tools, and digital marketing strategies are key enablers, allowing businesses to connect with consumers directly, manage inventory and logistics effectively, and reach a wider audience.
New product Development for Agri-food Financing
Agribusiness is not a popular choice for financial services. Financial services for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in agriculture are questionable. Agribusiness and regenerative agriculture require systems leaders who can identify financing opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Building relationships with financial institutions and changing opinions about agri-finance are recommended. Investigating new digital products that are accessible and inexpensive for MSMEs and shifting the balance from risk to reward can help shape agri-finance future.
Business Planning for Agri-food Startups
A comprehensive Agri-food business plan outlines a food-related business's goals, strategies, and financial projections, crucial for securing funding and guiding growth. It includes market analysis, operational plans, and marketing strategies tailored to the specific products and target market. A well-structured plan helps businesses identify opportunities, manage risks, and improve efficiency.
