Who We Are
Empowering Rural Resilience Globally.
RuralNexus is an international network of researchers, agronomists, and project managers dedicated to empowering rural resilience through evidence-based innovation.
Our Mission & Vision
Mission
Our mission is to advance sustainable agrifood systems and inclusive rural transformation through transdisciplinary research, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and innovation that connects scientific knowledge with local action.
Vision
A world where rural communities are empowered to co-create resilient food systems, equitable value chains, and adaptive livelihoods — grounded in knowledge sovereignty and environmental stewardship.
How We Work
RuralNexus operates at the intersection of research, policy, and practice. We work across multiple program areas — each addressing a critical dimension of sustainable rural transformation — and our approach is built on collaboration, evidence, and local ownership.
- Design and implement transdisciplinary research programmes in agrifood systems
- Facilitate multi-stakeholder innovation platforms connecting researchers, farmers, and policymakers
- Co-develop context-specific tools and methodologies for sustainable rural transformation
- Provide technical assistance, capacity building, and institutional strengthening
- Publish and disseminate open-access knowledge resources for the global development community
What We Do?
Transdisciplinary & Transformative Research
This program area designs and implements interdisciplinary, transdisciplinary, participatory, and transformative research activities addressing complex rural and agricultural challenges.
See more →Capacity Building & Knowledge Transfer
This program area strengthens the capacities of farmers, extension and innovation support organisations, and other stakeholders to engage in agricultural and rural innovation processes.
See more →Project Proposal Design & Planning
This program area focuses on the development of competitive national and international research and innovation projects. It supports the design of interdisciplinary and multi-actor proposals aligned with EU, German federal, and international funding priorities in agrifood systems, rural development, and sustainability transitions.
See more →Project Management & Scientific Communication
This program area coordinates the implementation, communication, and visibility of research and innovation projects. It strengthens collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and the translation of research outputs into practice, policy, and societal impact.
See more →Agrifood Systems & Rural Transformation Consultancy
This program area undertakes short-term consultancies and applied advisory assignments that complement RuralNexus’ broader research and innovation activities. It provides strategic, technical, and evidence-based support on agrifood systems transformation, rural development, and innovation processes.
See more →Digital transformation and data intelligence (DTDI) in agriculture
This programme promotes the digital transformation of agriculture and rural economies through the application of advanced digital technologies, artificial intelligence, data analytics, cloud computing, and innovation-driven solutions.
See more →Where We Work
Our interventions span Sub-Saharan Africa, with active field hubs across the continent.
Our Core Values
Community First
Every decision is filtered through the question: does this serve the communities we work with?
Scientific Integrity
We uphold rigorous research standards while staying responsive to real-world complexity.
Inclusivity
We actively amplify the voices of women, youth, and marginalized groups within innovation systems.
Work With Us
Whether you're a researcher, donor, government agency, or farmer organization — there's a role for you in the RuralNexus network.
Get In Touch