PHNOM PENH — In a major push for Cambodia’s rural youth, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) has committed $2.45 million to empower young entrepreneurs in agriculture. The funding supports the Developing Youth and Nurturing Agripreneurship for Market Impact and Community Growth (DYNAMIC) project, a three-year initiative running from March 2025 to December 2027.

Led by the Royal University of Agriculture (RUA) in collaboration with ChildFund Korea and Wonders International, the program will address key challenges such as limited financing and technical training for rural youth.

Aligned with Cambodia’s Pentagonal Strategy, which prioritizes SME growth and entrepreneurship, DYNAMIC aims to equip young agripreneurs with the tools to thrive, fostering sustainable economic opportunities while reducing poverty.

Jaekyun Rho, Country Director of ChildFund Korea Cambodia Country Office, emphasized the project’s comprehensive approach, which includes awareness campaigns, hands-on training, mentorship, business plan development, and pitching competitions for seed funding.

“Our focus is on reaching Cambodia's vulnerable youth, particularly in rural areas. This collaboration with KOICA and NICC allows us to provide critical support and opportunities where they're needed most,” Rho said.

RUA Rector Ngo Bunthan hailed the initiative as a groundbreaking step for agricultural education.

“With KOICA's support, we're injecting entrepreneurship and cutting-edge agripreneurship directly into our curriculum, forging the next generation of Cambodian agripreneurs,” Bunthan said.

Meanwhile, the National Incubation Center of Cambodia (NICC) will play a crucial role in providing mentorship, assisting with business plans, and expanding networking opportunities for aspiring agripreneurs.

NICC Director Srun Sovila underscored the project’s potential to drive innovation.

“By leveraging our research, resources, and network, we can help unlock the potential of Cambodian startups and contribute to transforming agriculture,” Sovila said.

Wonders International CEO Song Bum Lee highlighted the project’s action-driven approach, emphasizing the commitment to real change.

“DYNAMIC isn't just a word. It is our operating principle! We're diving headfirst into action, driving this collaboration with proactive communication, and ensuring lasting success with KOICA, NICC, and CFK,” Lee said.

By breaking down barriers and fostering innovation, the DYNAMIC initiative seeks to cultivate a new generation of agripreneurs who will play a vital role in shaping Cambodia’s agricultural future.