Impact:
- Sesame production increased from 4,000 metric tons (2016) to 166,354 metric tons (2025)
- Sesame sales reached 163,836 metric tons, valued at $244 million
We help rural
communities move
from survival to
prosperity
Rural economic development strengthens agriculture-driven economies so rural families can increase incomes, access markets, and build resilient livelihoods. Corus International partners with farmers, businesses, and local institutions to create inclusive, sustainable rural economies where opportunity is shared and prosperity endures.
Farming is the primary source of income for millions of rural families living in poverty worldwide. Investing in agriculture-centered development drives economic growth, strengthens food systems, and builds prosperity for generations.
Through the trusted experience of Lutheran World Relief, a founding organization of Corus International, we work alongside farmers, families, and local enterprises to build fair, competitive markets — where hard work is rewarded, economies grow stronger, and people live with dignity and hope.
How Corus International
strengthens rural economies.
Our rural economic development programming aligns with Corus’s Five Fundamentals, with Income as a primary driver and Knowledge as a critical, integrated contributor.
What We Do
Drive agricultural growth and profitability
We support smallholder farmers and agribusinesses to increase production, improve post- harvest efficiency, and expand access to local and global markets — delivering measurable gains in food security, productivity, and household income.
Advance sustainable land and water management
Environmental stewardship is embedded across our programs. By promoting efficient land and water use, we help rural enterprises grow responsibly while protecting natural resources critical to long-term economic and environmental resilience.
Strengthen market systems and private sector engagement
We develop inclusive market systems that enable micro, small, and medium enterprises to compete and thrive. Through strategic partnerships with global companies, we help private sector partners meet ESG goals, strengthen supply chains, and create shared value.
Unlock opportunity for women and young adults
We remove structural barriers that limit participation in rural economies. By expanding equitable access to skills, finance, and leadership opportunities, we strengthen the rural workforce and improve overall market performance.
Technical Areas
of Expertise
We specialize in the following rural economic development interventions:
- Market systems strengthening (MSS) Enterprise development
- Social and behavior change (SBC)
- Agroecology
- Disaster risk reduction (DRR)
- Women’s economic empowerment
- Positive youth development
- Resilience programming
- Land and water resource management
- Humanitarian–development nexus programming
Results
and Impact
- Increased agricultural productivity and farmer incomes
- Stronger, more inclusive rural market systems
- Improved resilience to climate and economic shocks
- Expanded economic participation for women and youth
Spotlight: Market-Led Growth in West Africa
In Burkina Faso, Corus organization Lutheran World Relief implemented an innovative Producer Enterprise Agent (PEA) model to deliver training on production, post-harvest handling, and processing to sesame cooperatives and unions.
PEAs — primarily young adults — are embedded in local communities and serve as commercial bridges to the market, creating a durable, locally driven foundation for trade.
Frequently
Asked Questions
What is rural economic development?
Rural economic development focuses on improving incomes, expanding market opportunities, and strengthening local economies in rural areas. It includes agricultural growth, enterprise development, and market system improvements that help families and communities move from subsistence to long-term prosperity.
How does Corus International support rural economic development?
Corus International works with farmers, local businesses, and institutions to increase agricultural productivity, strengthen market systems, build environmentally sustainable practices, and expand economic opportunities for women and youth. Our programs are designed to be locally led, market-driven, and sustainable.
Where does Corus International implement rural economic development programs?
Corus International implements rural economic development programs across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, with a focus on rural, fragile, and underserved areas where market access, productivity, and economic participation are limited.
Who benefits from Corus International’s rural economic development work?
Our programs benefit smallholder farmers, micro and small enterprises, women, and young adults in rural communities. By strengthening market systems and rural economies, we help entire communities gain access to income, opportunity, and long-term resilience.
How does Corus International work with the private sector?
We partner with global and local companies to improve supply chains, expand market access, and create shared value. These partnerships help companies meet ESG and sourcing commitments while creating fairer, more inclusive markets for rural producers and enterprises.
