Author : Hamilton, Serena; Palo, Anton Simon M.; Carter, Lucy; Merritt, Wendy; Cosijn, Michaela

Summary : This issue of Agriculture and Development Notes presents a maturity model for assessing inclusion in value chain partnerships, with examples from the Inclusive Value Chains Philippines project. The model helps agribusinesses, development agencies, researchers, and farmer organizations understand whether partnerships are exclusionary, tokenistic, functional, or empowering. It assesses inclusion across four dimensions: identity, agency and voice in decision-making, equity in risks and rewards, and sustainability of partnership outcomes. Using examples from smallholder coffee farmers in Hinalaan, Sultan Kudarat, Philippines, the publication shows how inclusion can change over time and how value chain actors can track progress toward more meaningful and equitable partnerships. This note offers a practical tool for strengthening inclusive value chains and improving smallholder farmer participation in agricultural markets.