This project will contribute to improving rural livelihoods in rural areas and reduction of socio-economic divergence in the north-west region (Gakh, Zagatala, and Balakan) of Azerbaijan by supporting improvement of inclusive agri-food systems that promote local food heritage through Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) and development of inclusive and efficient value chains for selected food products. At the same time, it will promote community-driven advisory and information services in the region (both state and private) that are accessible and affordable for rural small-scale farmers. The priority is given to the development of marketing initiatives around rural food heritage, local brands, quality labels, and biodiversity resources. The focus will be placed on ethnic food campaigns, particularly addressing the needs of women and rural youth involvement in local agri-food systems. The project will provide focused support to local agri-food producers in the selected pilot regions, the unique characteristics of local production systems, and attractiveness for agricultural tourism opportunities. It will further strengthen the business environment for developing inclusive and efficient value chains and leverage national recognition of the importance of agricultural heritage systems.

Development of efficient and inclusive agri-food systems that support smallholder agriculture and contribute to the reduction of poverty in the north-west region of Azerbaijan.

- Establishing local inclusive and efficient agriculture and food system models for the selected local agri-food products;
- Improving market access for them through strengthened producer-buyer linkages and expanding agri-food tourism potential of the region;
- Recognition of the target region as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS);
- Establishment of a model of community-driven local advisory services for the agri-food systems and piloting them in the selected communities.