Evolution of Institutional Support for Agricultural Entrepreneurship in Benin

Abstract

Agricultural entrepreneurship (AE) has been a viable development option promoted by Benin government. This study aims to analyze the institutional environment supporting AE with a focus on innovation within enterprises through laws, and implementation of programs and projects. The data was collected and analyzed using content analysis of documents such as program/project reports, narratives, decrees, orders, and policy documents from various ministries. The results indicate that the institutional framework of Benin did not place particular emphasis on supporting agricultural enterprises. Reforms were initiated lately in 2006 to provide specific support and ensure the emergence of small and medium-sized agricultural enterprises. Laws were enacted, and programs and projects were conducted during the implementation of the reforms. A thorough analysis of the actions regarding AE reveals that the government interventions primarily addressed components including the propensity to innovate and the practice of innovation of the agricultural enterprises. The propensity to innovate did not particularly interest the agricultural enterprises. Reflections led to the integration of the propensity to innovate into support actions because of the increasing failure rates of young agricultural enterprises. Support for innovation was not completed on one type of intervention. Building on the importance of the propensity to innovate, the capacity to innovate, and the practice of innovation, in entrepreneurial success, efforts should continue to be made to create a more favorable institutional environment. Policies will also aim to simultaneously target the three components of innovativeness to provide a better chance of survival for young AE. Case studies will help achieve this goal.