Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) Cooperative Agreement No. 72026818LA00001 - DEVELOPMENT ...
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Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ)
Cooperative Agreement No. 72026818LA00001
Annual Progress Report
October 1, 2020 – September 30, 2021
Submitted to USAID Lebanon
By Land O’Lakes Venture37
October 2021
DISCLAIMER
The authors’ views expressed in this report do not necessarily reflect the views of the United States
Agency for International Development or the United States Government.
Table of Contents
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS ........................................................................................................ 2
PROJECT OVERVIEW .................................................................................................................................... 3
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ................................................................................................................................. 4
PROGRESS made implementing the work plan ......................................................................................... 5
CHALLENGES .................................................................................................................................................21
PROGRAM MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION ....................................................................23
ANNEX I INDICATORS PERFORMANCE TRACKING TABLE .......................................................24
ANNEX II LINQ GRANTS TO DATE ......................................................................................................29
ANNEX III LINQ TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE TO DATE ...................................................................32
ANNEX IV LINQ QUARTERLY FINANCIAL REPORT .......................................................................35
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Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) Annual Progress Report – Y3, October 2020-September 2021
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
AAR After-Action Reviews
ABS Assaad Boulos Saadeh
AOR Agreement Officer Representative
CBA Cost-Benefit Analysis
CCIAT Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture in Tripoli
COP Chief of Party
CSP Community Support Program
CWB Cooperation Without Borders for Tailored Development
F2F Farmer to Farmer
FDA Food and Drug Administration
FSSC Food Safety Systems Certification
GAP Good Agricultural Practices
GHP Good Hygiene Practices
GMP Good Manufacturing Practices
GMEL Global Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning
HQ Headquarters
IPM Integrated Pest Management
IRAP Institut de Reeducation Audio-Phonetique
LINQ Lebanon Investment in Quality
LVDC Les Vergers des Cèdres
MDP Message De Paix
MEL Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning
MSMES Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises
RFA Request for Applications
RTE Ready to Eat
SMEs Small and Medium Enterprises
SOW Scope of Work
SSVP Société Saint Vincent de Paul
TA Technical Assistance
TGT The Good Thymes
UOB University of Balamand
USAID United States Agency for International Development
YOH Youth of Hope
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Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) Annual Progress Report – Y3, October 2020-September 2021
YEAR 3: October 1, 2020 – September 30, 2021
PROJECT OVERVIEW
The Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) activity increases the competitiveness of value-added
agribusinesses in Lebanon through access to new markets, productivity and quality improvement and
product innovation. LINQ is a 39-month, $5,900,000 cooperative agreement (number
720268l8LA00001) funded as an Associate Award under the Middle East and North Africa Farmer
to-Farmer (F2F) Leader with Associates (number AID-OAA-L-13-00008). LINQ provides critical
technical assistance (TA) through consultants and volunteers to value-added agribusinesses and their
farmer and grower partners, sound management of a grants fund, and communication and outreach
of learnings to stakeholders.
LINQ is designed to work with actors along a supply chain with agribusiness partners as the “entry
point.” Through grant investments and technical assistance partnerships, the project helps partners
improve their production, fosters investments that might not have been made otherwise, and builds
linkages upstream to famers and growers and downstream to destination markets. In addition to
agribusiness partners, the project benefits supplying farmers and growers and their clients (packers,
processors, buyers, and others) with a common objective of improving food quality, safety, and
competitiveness.
This third annual report documents the project’s activities from October 1, 2020, to September 30,
2021. The report describes the progress made in implementing the work plan, explains important
challenges encountered during the third year, provides an update on program management and
administration, and includes annexes to compare performance against the targets for the project’s
results indicators.
• Progress Made Implementing the Work Plan section is organized around the three
components and the activities completed under each component. In addition, there is a
summary of key activities related to Program Management and Administration work planning,
recruitment, major procurements, and key deliverables submitted to USAID.
• Challenges section describes the issues that arose during the second year of project
implementation as well as the challenges LINQ encountered, and the action taken or
proposed resolution of the challenge.
• Indicator Performance Tracking Table (IPTT) and Summary Monitoring
Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Table for Year 1, Year 2 and Year 3, describing progress
against LINQ indicators.
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Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) Annual Progress Report – Y3, October 2020-September 2021
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Year 3 of implementation was one of continual challenges and team resilience. LINQ successfully
initiated 7 new co-investment grants and 11 technical assistance assignments with Lebanese
agribusinesses, while completing and closing 16 grants. LINQ achieved this success despite multiple
challenges which had a tremendous impact on the workflow of the team, partners and suppliers alike.
From a deep economic and financial crisis, political instability, and a worldwide COVID-19 pandemic
to a devastating blast that erased part of the capital leaving hundreds of victims behind, Lebanon has
been facing unprecedented challenges over the past two years. The value of local currency has
crashed in Year 3, driving a large part of the population into poverty. LINQ activities and partners’
operation were directly impacted by these events, leading to delays in implementation, affecting
rehabilitation works, procurement and delivery of equipment, production and distribution of end-
products. Bank transactions were also affected resulting in delays in payments and cost share
collection. Nevertheless, the LINQ team frequently assessed the roadblocks, measuring their impact
on deliverables while implementing mitigation measures, in order to come up with adequate solutions
to help navigate through this volatile environment while responding to the partners and beneficiaries
needs.
Throughout this year, LINQ encountered many challenges and initiated adaptive measures to
overcome them. During that period, LINQ intensified on-line trainings with several partners and
stakeholders. Remote TAs with US-based consultants and volunteers were adopted to complete
support and bring partners together. During the month of June, LINQ team was pro-active in
conducting a survey at the partner level to assess the impact that the reduction of fuel subsidies by
the government would have on local businesses and industries, which confirmed that long-term fuel
shortages will result in shrinking of businesses, whether in terms of production capacity or cost.
Without opportunities to export their products, many processors will be compelled to close.
While recognizing the challenges noted above, the highlights from Year 3 include the following results:
1. The value of new private sector investment leveraged in Year 3, is around $979,045, which
is 84.7% of the annual target
2. Overall, 1825 individuals were impacted and benefited from LINQ in Year 3 activities (207%
higher than the annual target) and 1456 farmers and individuals from organizations received
training in year 3 (258% higher than the annual target).
3. The proportion of females compared to males participating in LINQ activities designated to
increase access to increased economic resources is 44% compared to a target rate of 30%.
4. LINQ implemented 19 outreach and learning events and communication products,
exceeding the target of 14 for the third year of the project
In quarter 1, a project No-Cost Extension request was submitted to USAID, following
recommendations of the Mid-Term Evaluation of Y2, to assist the project in recovering from
implementation delays encountered in Year 2. The request was approved in quarter 2 and the project
was officially extended till end of May 2022.
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Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) Annual Progress Report – Y3, October 2020-September 2021
PROGRESS MADE IMPLEMENTING THE WORK PLAN
COMPONENT 1: TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PROVISION TO ENHANCE GROWTH
OF LEBANESE AGRO-FOOD ENTITIES AND INCREASE COMPETITIVENESS OF
VALUE CHAINS
Introduction
During Year 3 of the project, LINQ continued supporting its existing partners and signed 11 new TA
partnerships which includes 2 non-profit organizations, 4 associations, and 5 businesses. These TA
partnerships aim at assisting food processors and on-farm producers to acquire the knowledge and
skills needed to improve their production processes to enhance the quality of their final product. The
training tackled multiple topics pertaining to the beneficiaries’ interest: product packaging and labeling,
integrated pest management, food safety & quality and good agriculture practices and traceability,
irrigation / fertigation on apples and olives and processing of dairy products (Feta, Bulghari, Mozarella
and Akkawi cheese).
Since the launching of LINQ in September 2018, 29 TA partnerships have been established (refer to
Annex III). To date, 3145 individuals have benefitted from the TA partnerships. Since September
2018, 35 companies or organizations in the food and agriculture industry have applied new
technologies.
Despite the many challenges that arose throughout the year (new wave of COVID-19 outbreak,
continuous economic collapse, and shortages in many basic supplies including fuel), the LINQ team
persisted on identifying new partnerships. This was achieved by organizing necessary visits and
meetings while taking essential precautionary measures and exploring new topics as part of the
adaptive management strategy. The new TA partners that were initiated in Y3 were identified through
direct contact, but were mainly demand driven, with organizations reaching out directly to LINQ or
through other USAID-funded projects that referred some of their partners to receive agricultural
training under the PERSUAP.
The LINQ team evaluated each partner, assessed their needs and worked closely with them to ensure
proper allocation of resources. In addition to local paid consultants, LINQ mobilized two volunteer
experts through collaboration with the Farmer-to-Farmer Program to provide necessary assistance
and introduce new practices.
LINQ’s support to these agri-businesses comes at a very critical time, helping them to navigate
through the challenges and mitigate the current complex operating environment.
Under TA component, LINQ provided training to a total of 476 beneficiaries during Year 3 of the
project. A summary of the TA partnerships negotiated and initiated, and the specific farmer training
activities implemented during the year follows below.
Technical Assistance: New Partnerships in Year 3
Institut de Reeducation Audio-Phonetique (IRAP): Located in Ayn Aar, Mount Lebanon, IRAP
supports deaf children and adolescents through rehabilitation and social reinsertion. IRAP reached
out to LINQ requesting technical assistance to develop proper packaging and labeling for its food
products to comply with international markets. LINQ’s consultant worked closely with IRAP on the
development of the nutritional labeling of 26 items (20 biscuits and 6 frozen ready-to-eat items). The
assignment also included shelf-life extension studies of the cookies produced at the center, either
through controlling the ingredients, adjusting the recipes used, or by changing the type of packages
utilized, to reduce moisture and oxidation rates within the final product. IRAP will now be able to
export its products to new markets, including the Gulf countries and Europe, increasing its sales and
benefiting its members and employees.
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Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) Annual Progress Report – Y3, October 2020-September 2021
Abou El Ezz General Trading: Under this technical assignment, LINQ delivered Integrated Pest
Management (IPM) training for olives to Abou El Ezz related farmers. The TA aims at supporting the
partner in olive orchard improvement through appropriate training and the use of harvesting
equipment and tools such as a mechanical harvester, nets, and plastic crates. The training was
delivered on-site and was attended by 5 olive farmers and focused on the most important pests and
fungal diseases the farmers are likely to encounter that may induce a significant loss in their yields.
Among the topics covered were identifying symptoms, prevention techniques, and treatments of
several disease and pests, as well as the important use of the delta traps in olive orchards to easily
detect, count, and identify adult male pests.
Société Saint Vincent de Paul (SSVP): This non-profit organization helps the poor and supplies
their most urgent needs, SSVP reached out to LINQ requesting support for its Zahle branch, in which
a group of volunteers cook free meals to families in need. LINQ provided SSVP volunteers training
in “Food Safety and Quality best practices” with necessary recommendations to be adopted by
kitchen personnel (cooks) in their day-to-day work. LINQ organized 2 training sessions to 10 staff
members tackling the importance of hygiene and safety requirements that are mandatory to safely
handle, prepare, and serve food and the different types of food hazards, their origin, the effect of such
risks on the quality of the product, and the effect of the food hazard on the consumer. LINQ also
provided SSVP with a set of kitchen tools to complement the TA.
Cooperation Without Borders for Tailored Development (CWB): As part of its
collaboration with other USAID-funded projects, LINQ was approached by the CSP project to
support one of its beneficiaries in technical training on Good Agricultural Practices. LINQ organized
a set of trainings targeting CWB farmers to learn about IPM and/or organic farming system, to
promote alternative production practices that would allow farmers to access new market
opportunities while improving their impact on the environment. The sessions were attended by a
total of 35 participants most of whom are the nursery engineers.
Youth of Hope (YOH): Through collaboration with the USAID-funded Baladi Program
implemented by Caritas, LINQ partnered with YOH, a non-profit organization that aims to cooperate
and coordinate with church pastoral youth committees, apostolic youth groups and all relevant actors
to enhance the role of young people in the community spiritually, morally, psychologically,
intellectually, academically, socially, and economically. LINQ organized a total of 39 training sessions
focused on apples and olives and delivered virtually via Zoom to 233 young people. The topics
covered Good Agriculture Practices including soil texture and composition as well as Irrigation and
Fertilization. The online sessions were followed by 9 practical sessions attended by 139 young people,
who applied practices such as pruning and grafting following LINQ consultants’ recommendations.
These practical sessions were designed in a way to provide attendees with the chance to apply the
information obtained during the online trainings to better engrave the knowledge received.
Green Pure / Bustan Al Zeitoun: In collaboration with the F2F Program, LINQ partnered with
Bustan Al Zeitoun, an extra virgin olive oil producer, located in Aabra, Sidon, to support them in the
implementation of a Food Quality System which will allow them to access new international markets.
Through two US-based volunteer experts, targeted technical assistance on Good Manufacturing
Practices and Traceability were provided remotely over a period of 5 months, from May to
September 2021. Following this TA, Bustan Al Zeitoun has witnessed improvements in its operations
that comply with the requirements of export markets in the USA and Canada. They also received
assistance to register their company and its products with the USFDA.
Tanmiya wa Tahseen Association: The association provides social services to local communities
in Khraybet El Jundi (Akkar) and supports farmers through the rehabilitation of their agricultural lands
and marketing of their olive oil products. Under LINQ’s objective to empower women in rural areas
and as part of LINQ’s gender crosscutting approach, several training sessions on food safety and food
processing techniques were conducted. The LINQ consultant visited the facility to assess and provide
adequate instructions and recommendations for proper rehabilitation works according to GMP
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Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) Annual Progress Report – Y3, October 2020-September 2021standards. In addition, a training on “Pomegranate Molasses: GMP, GHP and compliance regulations”
was delivered to 16 women, and covered several aspects related to the production process of
pomegranate molasses, allowed additives, and nutritional facts provided by LIBNOR standards.
Jezzine and Zahrani Development / JAZ (j.Grove): Established to help farmers in the Jezzine
and Zahrani regions to improve their products and access new markets, JAZ markets and sells
products like pine nuts, honey, thyme, olive oil and other products under the j.Grove brand. It sells
directly to consumers through its retail shop in Jezzine and through 30 different points of sales in
Beirut and Mount Lebanon, mostly organic shops. During this year, LINQ recruited a Food Expert to
help JAZ adapt its labeling design to meet USFDA requirements so that their products can enter the
US market.
Le Bon Lait: LINQ signed a partnership with Le Bon Lait, a small dairy cooperative located in Akkar
that supports local dairy keepers and possesses a dairy processing factory that manufactures 15 types
of local cheese and dairy products with around 500 points of sales in North Lebanon. To expand its
production to new types of cheese (Kaval, Bulgarian cheese, Feta, Mozzarella, etc.), Le Bon Lait
requested TA on “dairy products processing (Fetta and Bulgari cheese)”. Through introducing new
types of foreign cheese products Le Bon Lait will contribute to import substitution goals within the
dire economic situation in the country at prices affordable to local consumers. As a result, Le Bon
Lait will be able to increase the purchase of milk from the farmers, enhance the income of the
cooperative by 10% and access at least 4 new potential markets in the first year of production.
Women Association in Badghan: As part of LINQ’s objective to empower women and help them
acquire financial autonomy, LINQ organized a two-day training on “Dairy Products Processing:
Mozzarella and Akkawi cheese production” with the Women Association in Badghan. This training
was attended by a total of (twenty-five) 25 participants. The aim of these sessions is to improve
women’s food processing skills and develop new products that would be new sources of income to
them and their families. The Women Association in Badghan gathers women from Badghan and the
neighboring villages who produce mouneh products such as jams and kishk in addition to bread, cakes,
and local cheese.
Women Association in Khraybeh: Located in Khraybeh, Chouf, the association entered in a
partnership with LINQ to support its women members with improved food production techniques,
namely, the making of Mozzarella and Akkawi cheese. The two-day training sessions were attended
by a total of 34 women, who learned hands-on how to produce these new types of cheese. The
women members of this association produce the products at their homes and distribute them
through personal networks. Following LINQ’s intervention, they aim at expanding their production
capacity of dairy products (yogurt, labneh, cheese) and start working in small groups which will help
increase the quantity and decrease production cost.
On-going partnerships from Year 2
TA Partner Brief Updates
Lebanese - LINQ completed the consultancy sessions under this TA, with the consultant delivering the
packaging design that complies with USFDA requirements, for a total of 25 vegan ready-to-eat
Mezze
and ready-to-cook items.
The Good - LINQ provided additional support this year to employees of TGT on Food Safety and Quality
Thymes to ensure these essential practices are well assimilated and applied at the facility.
- In addition, TGT introduced necessary upgrades to its premises to comply with the LINQ
(TGT) consultant’s recommendations on Good Manufacturing Practices which will allow them to
apply to internationally recognized quality assurance systems such as HACCP and FSSC.
Message de - During this year, LINQ supported MDP with training on “Food Safety and Quality”, attended
Paix (MDP) by 8 MDP staff, with the purpose of upgrading their knowledge and practices to comply with
food processing standards. The MDP team prepares food meals that are delivered daily to
more than 100 people.
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Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) Annual Progress Report – Y3, October 2020-September 2021Trainings to Farmers and Students
Throughout this year, LINQ provided training to farmers, women and students tackling several topics
of interest. These sessions were offered online, especially during the months when confinement, due
to the COVID-19 second wave, was imposed. In collaboration with the expert consultants, LINQ
innovated in the presentation technique to make it more interactive and show application of the
theoretical information provided. This included training on grafting via a live demonstration with real
rootstock and necessary tools. This new method was very well received by the attendees and helped
them better assimilate the information, as relayed by many of them.
LINQ partnered with many universities across Lebanon to support their students in advancing their
knowledge in agricultural topics that would allow them to be better prepared for their careers.
A summary of these trainings can be found in the following table:
Number of non-unique
Topic Date Host
Attendees
November 13th, 2020 Ain El Tineh Association 25 farmers
University of Holy Spirit Kaslik
Apple pruning November 25th, 2020 28 students
(USEK)
techniques
116 students completing a
December 4th, 2020 Lebanese University (LU)
bachelor’s in agriculture
Apple and fruit November 20th, 2020 Green Orient session 1 96 farmers
grafting techniques December 2nd, 2020 Green Orient session 2 44 farmers
Integrated Pest December 8th, 2020 Jezzine Cooperative 27 farmers
Management on
apples December 11th, 2020: Werhaniyeh 16 farmers
17 students completing
University of Holy Spirit Kaslik
November 26th, 2020 their studies in Beverages
(USEK)
Olive oil quality and Enology
assessment and
54 students completing
evaluation Lebanese American University
November 27th, 2020 their studies in Nutrition and
(LAU)
Food sciences
75 students completing
November 18th, 2020 Lebanese University (LU) master’s degree in Food
HACCP and Food Technology
Safety 59 students completing
November 25th, 2020 Lebanese University (LU) master’s degree in food
technology
Orchards
establishment for January 12th, 2021 Green Orient 71 farmers
fruit trees
Pruning January 14th, 2021 Assoun Association 71 farmers
techniques for
Fruit Trees January 28th, 2021 Sohmor Women Association 33 farmers
Good
Manufacturing January 27th, 2021 Green Orient 171 farmers
Practices
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Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) Annual Progress Report – Y3, October 2020-September 2021Pruning for pears
and grafting of February 12th, 2021 Ain El Tineh Association 24 farmers
fruit trees
February 4th, 2021 Women in olive oil 22 farmers
Olive oil quality
assessment and 89 students completing
evaluation February 26th, 2021 Notre Dame University their studies in Nutrition and
Food sciences
Good Agricultural
Practices in olive February 25th, 2021 Women in olive oil 18 farmers
orchards
Animal Nutrition 16 students (3rd, 4th, 5th,
April 27th, 2021 USEK
and healthcare year students)
Honey Quality
May 7th, 2021 NDU 66 students
Assessment
Table 1. Life of Project Results per TA Partnership
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Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) Annual Progress Report – Y3, October 2020-September 2021COMPONENT 2: FACILITATE TECHNOLOGY UPGRADING THROUGH
INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIPS AND GRANTS
Introduction
Through co-investing with agribusinesses in technology upgrades and improved systems, LINQ aims
at supporting the food production sector to improve quality at the farm and firm levels in order to
expand market reach locally and internationally. This support proved to be of high value within the
current context in the country, with economic, financial and health environments becoming more
and more challenging and, in some cases, collapsing. Together, LINQ and its partners had to be
creative and resilient to navigate through the complex operational environment, assessing
consequential scenarios and conceptualize approaches for achieving the project’s strategic objectives.
Despite all the challenges, LINQ was able to initiate 7 new co-investment grants following USAID
approval, while completing and closing 16. The value of the LINQ contribution for the seven in-kind
grants is $295,904, while $304,053 (or 51%) is the value of leveraged investment to be contributed
from the businesses (out of which $198,967 is in capital cost share).
Within this difficult economic and financial context, LINQ has worked around the challenges and
successfully implemented the already planned interventions, shifting in-person training to online
platforms when feasible, delivering equipment despite some delays and following up closely with
grantees providing guidance and support as needed.
Grantee Selection. LINQ’s new partners were selected from the RFA-2 list of pre-selected
candidates, from already existing TA partners or through requests received from businesses outside
the RFA mechanism. Despite all the challenges, LINQ technical team managed to visit the short-listed
businesses at their premises, met with owners on several occasions to review the management and
operations and to validate the information contained in the original applications. This visit allowed
the team to better understand the candidates’ needs and gaps and determine how to best address
them.
Necessary due diligence reviews were undertaken following the thorough development of each grant
package featuring criteria for impact, sustainability, feasibility, and additionality. It also included a cost-
benefit analysis (CBA) for each grantee. The CBA calculations project the outcome and impact of the
co-investment and TA and forecast sales increases and profitability of the business operation.
University of Balamand and CCIAT, reached out to the project with unique business ideas, that
adhered to LINQ’s objectives of responding to the current and evolving needs of agro-processors
and resilient farmers amid the present economic uncertainty and COVID-19 outbreak.
The 7 new co-investment grants that were approved by USAID this year covered all 3 sub-sectors:
fresh fruits, processed products and dairy products. With the increasing shortage of basic goods,
LINQ is precisely supporting its partners to have higher efficiency and better quality to be able to
access new local and international markets. LINQ assisted in establishing a one-of-its kind burghul
production facility in the Bekaa, enhanced the production of the Lebanese Zaatar in South Lebanon,
and supported several dairy processors in Mount Lebanon in upgrading their capacities and improving
the quality of their final products. LINQ also responded to the rising need of small farmers to boost
their resilience through rehabilitating a vegetable seedling nursery within a highly known university in
the North.
All these awarded co-investment grants were structured as in-kind grant agreements. LINQ procured
and delivered various food processing equipment and provided TA to several partners based on the
requirements defined during the due diligence of the partnership. The implementation progress of
these co-investment grant partnerships is described in more detail below.
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Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) Annual Progress Report – Y3, October 2020-September 2021Progress updates of new grants
University of Balamand: As part of its adaptive management approach, LINQ has responded to a
request from University of Balamand to rehabilitate and upgrade their nursery in Baino, Akkar region,
one of the poorer areas in the country, where farmers rely heavily on their produce for the survival
of their families. Under the current difficult financial situation, farmers have become unable to buy
the vegetable seedlings they need because the costs have increased dramatically. LINQ entered into
a co-investment partnership with the UOB to establish a new one-of-a-kind nursery that will provide
farmers in the surrounding 14 villages in the Joumeh area with high quality vegetable seedlings at a
more affordable price. UOB will produce a total of 620,000 vegetable seedlings of different crops per
year to benefit a minimum of 50 farmers. Furthermore, 10 individuals from the university and / or
neighboring villages and 50 farmers will benefit from extensive training sessions and technical follow
up, to help them improve their agricultural and nursery management knowledge and the quality of
their final product.
During Y3, LINQ organized two online training sessions on “Best Management Practices for
nurseries” and “Integrated Pest Management” to the nursery staff. Meanwhile, UOB initiated and
finalized the installation of the greenhouse which includes the following equipment: a ventilation
system, a tray seeding machine, a germination room, a greenhouse structure, a working stand, a
curtain system, a watering system, and electric supplies.
A launching event, to promote the project is expected during the first quarter of Y4.
CCIAT: LINQ partnered with the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture in Tripoli, to
help CCIAT upgrade its pilot plant for the agro-food sector that serves stakeholders, entrepreneurs,
food establishment owners, farmers, and trainees. The partnership focuses on upgrading the
equipment at CCIAT/IDRAC for the processing of: (1) dried fruit-based chips packed into new
improved bags, and (2) dried fruit/herbs-based tea bags, which will increase the purchase of raw
materials and benefit at least 50 new farmers.
During this year, CCIAT conducted 2 training sessions, titled “Good Agriculture Practices and Post-
Harvest Techniques on Fruit Trees” and “Fruits and Vegetables Dehydration Techniques” to a total
of seventy-eight (78) beneficiaries. In parallel, LINQ provided CCIAT with a software for the
development of food products’ nutritional facts. Five agri-businesses, of which 3 are LINQ partners,
have already benefitted from this service offered by CCIAT for free as part of its cost share.
Figure 1, Royal Organics equipment delivery
Royal Organics (RO): A food processor located in Rachaya Al Wadi, Bekaa, Royal Organics looks
at complementing its existing production line of granola bars to increase productivity and improve
the quality of the final product. LINQ’s support will enable Royal Organics to purchase an additional
73,260 kg of fresh grapes from 20 new and 4 current farmers. This will lead to increasing its supply
network to 24 farmers, creating new employment opportunities for four new employees, and
increasing sales.
During this year, LINQ delivered to RO the equipment under the in-kind grant and supported fifty-
three (53) grape farmers through training sessions on “Pruning of Grapes” and “Grapes Orchards
Establishment and Grafting. In parallel, RO initiated rehabilitation works based on the food consultant
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Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) Annual Progress Report – Y3, October 2020-September 2021recommendations in compliance with FSSC 22000 requirements and purchased a gas convection oven
and a generator under its cost-share.
Farm Hill: A family-owned dairy production company located in Lehfed – Jbeil, Farm Hill entered
into a co-investment partnership with LINQ to acquire new equipment for the improvement of
processed cheeses and butter. This will allow Farm Hill to purchase fresh milk from 15 small scale
dairy farmers and create 2 new job opportunities.
During Y3, a mobile cold room and a milk analyzer were delivered to Farm Hill, including a
wastewater treatment system that complies with environmental norms and standards. A training
session for Farm Hill and related dairy farmers on “Animal Nutrition and Healthcare” was conducted,
and a TA on butter-making was virtually led by Land O’Lakes, Inc., expert volunteer, providing Farm
Hill with targeted and essential support for butter production. In parallel, Farm Hill purchased the
following equipment under its cost-share: a pH meter with probe, a stainless-steel working table, a
stainless-steel trolley, a trolley with shelves, wooden shelves, stainless-steel cheese shelves, a
handheld thermal inkjet printer, a hand impulse sealer, a trolley with hangers in addition to non-
budgeted equipment complementary to the production line such as a stainless-steel trolley, a cheese
cooking machine, a cheese cutter, and shredder.
Figure 2, La Vallee Blanche one-on-one training
on “Animal Nutrition and Healthcare”.
La Vallee Blanche: Located in Ehmej, Mount Lebanon, La Vallee Blanche, is a small family-owned
dairy processing facility that processes diverse types of local dairy products while also developing
international cheeses. As part of this partnership with LINQ, La Vallee Blanche is receiving support
to upgrading its existing traditional processing line that operates in small, disconnected spaces, which
makes the process unsanitary and irregular. The new process will be a continuous closed, hygienic
line ready to process and distribute consistent, high-quality competitive products in the local market.
During Y3, LINQ provided La Vallee Blanche with a cold room and 3 training sessions on “Animal
Nutrition and Healthcare” improving the knowledge and the practices of twenty-two (22) dairy
farmers.
JADE LIFE: Another dairy processor located in Ghouma, Batroun, North of Lebanon, JADE LIFE
specializes in the processing, packing, and distribution of traditional Lebanese dairy products mainly
Shanklish balls and dried labneh in oil. With this co-investment JADE LIFE looks to improve the quality
of its products, expand its processing capacity, and meet increasing local and export market demand
for dairy products. Shifting its production from powdered to fresh milk will add value to JADE LIFE’s
processed products while benefitting local dairy farmers directly. Following the LINQ consultant’s
recommendations, JADE LIFE has launched rehabilitation work complying with Good Manufacturing
Practices (GMP) standards and purchased a steam boiler under its cost-share.
Eco Tech: Eco Tech is the final agri-business to be selected for a co-investment grant under the
LINQ project. A small oregano processing facility owned by a young entrepreneur, Eco Tech
partnered with LINQ to acquire needed knowledge and technology for upgrading the facility and
improving their production processes. Showing high commitment, during this year Eco Tech was able
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Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) Annual Progress Report – Y3, October 2020-September 2021to quickly purchase equipment needed and undergo rehabilitation works under its cost share. The
following equipment (under Eco-Tech cost-share) were installed in the newly established hangar: a
thyme thresher and a horizontal mixer. The equipment under LINQ’s contribution will be delivered
and installed during Y4Q1.
Table 2. Status Updates on the Investment Partnerships (Active)
Grantee Brief Updates
Al Dayaa - All equipment under grantee cost-share were delivered during the month of November
2020.
- Rehabilitation process finalized following the consultant visits and recommendations on
GMP requirements during the month of July 2021.
- Despite the challenges encountered during this year, partner was able to install and
connect all machines and start up the production process.
- Partner delivered two training sessions “Olive Orchards Management” attended by a total
of 34 farmers.
- LINQ executed a no-cost extension until October 31, 2021, in order to complete the
collection of all the data needed.
- Jobs created: 4.96.
- Total number of beneficiaries: 41.
Rim Mills - All equipment under both LINQ and partner cost-share were delivered, installed, and
branded during the month of May 2021, following several delays caused by the lockdown
imposed internationally in many countries.
- Rehabilitation of the facility to adhere to the GMP requirements completed during the
month of April 2021.
- Following USAID intervention, Rim Mills collaborated with two wheat farmers and
supported them to cultivate brown wheat in order to encourage import substitution,
around 400 Kg was cultivated in 20 dun land.
- A video was produced depicting USAID intervention with Rim Mills and shared on USAID
Lebanon, USAID Middle East and LINQ Facebook pages.
- USAID representatives visited Rim Mills facility during the month of June 2021
- Trainings/technical assistance visits on “Good Agriculture Practices” conducted to 12 wheat
farmers.
- LINQ executed a no-cost extension till October 31, 2021, to proceed with the data
collection.
- Total number of beneficiaries: 22.
Torzaya - A set of kitchen equipment was delivered to Torzaya cooperative premises during the
Cooperative month of May 2021, including 2 tomato juicers, a vacuum machine, a tray dehydrator, a
slicing machine, 3 open burners, a stainless-steel hood, a stainless-steel table and stainless-
steel double sink, 2 refractometers, 5 polyethylene pallets and a set of casseroles.
- Torzaya cooperative purchased and installed all equipment under its cost-share (a manual
slicing machine for tomato, stainless steel working tables and a set of kitchen tools, a digital
scale, heat sealer for plastic bags and a fire extinguisher).
- Rehabilitation following the consultant recommendations adhering to the GMP
requirements was finalized beginning the month of May 2021.
- Due to an unfortunate family accident, some activities have been put on-hold and will be
resumed shortly.
Olive Trade - Manufacturing of the equipment under both LINQ and partner’s cost share is underway
from a supplier in Turkey.
- LINQ consultant visited the facility to provide Olive Trade with recommendations for the
rehabilitation of the facility to comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
requirements.
Table 3. Status Updates on the Investment Partnerships (closed)
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Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) Annual Progress Report – Y3, October 2020-September 2021Grantee Brief Updates
Les Vergers des - October 2020: the launching of the production of 600 apple sauce doypacks.
Cedres (LVDC) - December 2020: the launching of the e-commerce website in order to sell Pomariis apple
sauce, Pomariis apple sauce was also posted on Quick Bite a food e-commerce website.
- Grant closed on December 31, 2020.
- Number of beneficiaries: 47.
Agro Cedrus - October 2020: on-going production of the organic carob molasses at the factory.
- USAID visit to Agro Cedrus factory on October 21, 2020.
- December 2020: two videos shot at the premises, one with the local TV channel LBCI and
the second is LINQ video that was posted on USAID Lebanon and LINQ facebook pages.
- Jan 2021: Agro Cedrus was awarded the first price (winning $4,500) of the Berytech
Hakaton that focuses on innovative solutions to challenges in the agri-food industry. 204
participants were competing, out of which 9 teams were pre-selected.
- Grant closed on December 31, 2020.
- Jobs created: 1.6.
- Total number of beneficiaries: 156.
ABS Group - Due to the lockdown imposed worldwide, the delivery of the Semi-automatic labeling
machine was delayed till April 2021 which requested LINQ to execute a no-cost extension
until June 30, 2021.
- Grant closed on June 30, 2021.
- Jobs created: 1.79.
- Total number of beneficiaries: 57.
Lakkis - After several delays caused by the lockdown and due to the harvest season, piping and
connections, as well as the cooling tower under the partner’s contribution and the
pasteurizing tunnel under LINQ’s cost share were finally installed in August 2021.
- Grant close on August 31, 2021.
- Jobs created: 6.29.
- Total number of beneficiaries: 104.
Hajjar Foods - Budget realignment approved by USAID to introduce equipment for the production of new
SAL items (cream cheese and processed cheese) to compete with imported goods and sustain
the business.
- Partner purchased and installed solar panels at the facility.
- LINQ delivered all equipment under its cost share.
- October 2019 - August 2021: Technical visits to 10 cow/goat keeper conducted under
partner cost-share.
- September 2021: technical assistance under LINQ contribution on digital marketing
launched and finalized. The consultancy included photoshoots promoting healthy eating and
recipes using Go Baladi products to be used in a promotional campaign.
- Jobs created: 7.84.
- Total number of beneficiaries: 31.
Bazoun - Grant closed on December 31, 2020.
Cooperative - Total number of beneficiaries: 64.
Batrouniyat - All equipment delivered, installed and operational.
- Grant closed in December 2020.
- Total number of beneficiaries: 10.
Manara Dairy - 2 cooling systems (LINQ cost-share) and 2 transportation vehicles (grantee cost-share)
were purchased, delivered and branded. These items were procured under a cost-
extension in order to achieve the company’s goals and serve largest geographical areas.
- June 10, 2021visit of USAID representatives to the facility.
- Partner conducted a one-on-one training session on Animal nutrition and Healthcare to a
total of 7 cow/goat/sheep keepers.
- Grant closed on June 30, 2021.
- Jobs created: 5.28.
- Total number of beneficiaries: 14.
Assoun - December 2020: Virtual training conducted for Assoun farmers on fruits grafting.
Association - Grant closed on December 31, 2020.
- Jobs created: 2.28.
- Total number of beneficiaries: 161.
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Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) Annual Progress Report – Y3, October 2020-September 2021Grantee Brief Updates
Akkar Al Atika - Grant closed on December 31, 2020.
Cooperative - Total number of beneficiaries: 68.
Hasroun - Grant closed on December 31, 2020.
Cooperative - Total number of beneficiaries: 73.
Shapash SARL - Partner conducted a training on “apple pruning techniques” to a total of 17 farmers.
- Grant closed on June 30, 2021.
- Total number of beneficiaries: 23.
Agri Pharm - Consultant conducted a training on apple pruning to farmers in the Bcharre region
- Grant closed on December 31, 2021
- Jobs created: 0.4
- Total number of beneficiaries:214
CIDRA - The equipment delivery and operation at the facility were affected by the lockdown,
however, despite the delays LINQ was able to deliver a filling machine and an autoclave to
partner while CIDRA procured the corks and a foil applicator.
- Partner launched the company’s website: https://www.cidralebanon.com/.
- LINQ shot a video featuring a virtual tour of the partner’s facility.
- Partner was nominated as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP), by JCI
(Junior Chamber international).
- USAID representative visited partner’s facility in August 2021.
- A budget modification was approved by the AOR to cover the cost of manufacturing and
installing of a steel cage to protect the steam boiler for security purposes.
- Grant closed on September 15, 2021.
- Jobs created: 1.76.
- Total number of beneficiaries: 15.
Bon Choix - During this year, Bon Choix launched the production process at the facility after delivery
and installation of all the machines acquired following this co-investment grant.
- Following LINQ support partner was able to invest in a cashew ram machine locally designed
and manufactured.
- LINQ conducted a virtual training on “Artificial Swarming for Honeybees” to 36 attendees.
- A video of the facility was developed and posted on USAID Lebanon, USAID Middle East
and LINQ Facebook pages and Land O’ Lakes twitter page and YouTube channel.
- Grant closed on June 30, 2021.
- Jobs created: 4.
- Total number of beneficiaries: 80.
Em El Khayrat - Following the lockdown imposed over the course of several month and the general
mobilization, and Covid-19 cases detected among employee and family members, Em El
Khayrat rehabilitation process experienced many delays, nevertheless, partner was able to
make up for the lost time and finalize the rehabilitation process, installation of the
wastewater treatment and cold storage room.
- LINQ delivered all equipment under its cost share.
- A one-on-one training for 4 cow keepers on “Animal Nutrition and Healthcare” was
conducted during the month of March 2021.
- Following the “LEAN Management” Webinar organized by LINQ to its partners, Em El
Khayrat was selected for a free assessment of its process by the expert who provided needed
recommendations for operation improvements.
- USAID representative visited partner’s facility in August 2021.
- Grant closed on June 30, 2021.
- Jobs created: 1.7.
- Total number of beneficiaries: 31.
Grants Modifications & Extensions.
During Year 3, LINQ completed and closed 16 grants and initiated 7 new, while continuing the
implementation of the other 4 active grants. Nevertheless, this exceptionally challenging year
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Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) Annual Progress Report – Y3, October 2020-September 2021impacted the planned activities and resulted in delays towards original timelines. LINQ executed no-
cost extensions to 7 of its grants partners, ABS and Bon Choix (June 30, 2021), Lakkis (August 31,
2021), Cidra (September 15, 2021), Hajjar Foods (September 30, 2021), Al Dayaa (October 31, 2021)
and Rim Mills (October 31, 2021), to ensure proper implementation of the interventions under the
grants and complete the data collection process. Moreover, the following grants underwent budget
realignments: Hajjar Foods introduced new equipment to produce new dairy products; Cidra
received an additional autoclave to ensure proper sanitization measures, along with a steel cage to
protect the steam boiler; Rim Mills underwent a budget modification to decrease grantee cost share
by $30,000 while Manara Dairy saw their budget increase to cover the cost of 2 refrigerated boxes
for new distribution vehicles; Finally, the specs of the milk/cream separator for Farm Hill were revised
and adjusted as well as the capacity of the wastewater treatment system, which directly reflected on
the initial budget.
Additionally, with the unprecedented events, ongoing economic crisis and currency devaluation,
topped with fuel and diesel shortages and unexpected increase in shipping cost, LINQ anticipates
extending some of the current grants until Y4Q1.
During the month of September, LINQ received the approval from the AOR on calculating cost share
from its partners based on receipts rather than invoices, considering that the average gap between
the former and the latter is around 3 weeks. This comes in response to the latest DQA
recommendation that emphasizes on the importance of timeliness and accuracy in data reporting.
Access to Finance.
During the past year of implementation bank restrictions on payment transfer, money withdrawal
and loan provision, led to unavailability of any kind of loans. LINQ partners were not able to access
any type of financing and had to rely on their own funds. The continuing financial and economic crises
directly impact two of LINQ’s performance indicators: (i) number of enterprises that have accessed
loans and the (ii) total value of accessed loans. Since mid-2019, credit for SMEs through the banking
system has not been available.
The Lebanese pound lost more than 90% of its value during this year, reaching 25,000 Lebanese
pounds for the USD, while the jobs market has experienced a severe drought which caused the
closure of many businesses in all sectors.
Furthermore, with the COVID-19 new outbreak and imposed lockdown over the course of several
month, many bank branches were closed and others are opening according to a pre-determined
schedule.
LINQ team has continued monitoring the situation and orienting its partners to available funding from
other projects that could be offered. This has been part of LINQ’s coordination with other USAID-
and other- funded activities.
COMPONENT 3: COMMUNICATE RESULTS THROUGH OUTREACH AND SHARE
ACTIVITY KNOWLEDGE WITH THE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS
Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning
In coordination with Venture37 Global Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (GMEL) team, the LINQ
team led the implementation of the MEL plan, supervised data collection from farmers and businesses,
and conducted data analysis, ensuring reporting requirements were met in a timely manner.
Moreover, in response to the COVID-I9 outbreak, and the total and partial lockdowns enforced by
the government during Q1 and early Q2, in addition to deteriorating economic situation in the
country, the MEL team took necessary measures to adapt and customize the data collection
processes, demonstrating the ability of the team to learn and adapt. The MEL team collaborated with
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Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) Annual Progress Report – Y3, October 2020-September 2021Venture37 GMEL to continue data entry into Impact, the electronic data collection and management
system.
To note that, during the month of September, LINQ received the approval from the AOR on
calculating cost share from its partners based on receipts rather than invoices, considering that the
average gap between the former and the latter is around 3 weeks. This comes in response to the
latest DQA recommendation that emphasizes on the importance of timeliness and accuracy in data
reporting.
Field visits and Remote Data Collection: Due to the restrictions on movement in response to the
COVID-19 pandemic, the social distancing requirements in Q1, and fuel shortage in Lebanon in
Q3/Q4, MEL relied mostly on remote data collection. The team used a variety of online platforms
such as Google Meet and Microsoft Teams to conduct meetings. Phone calls and WhatsApp were
also used to contact various beneficiaries and collect data remotely. Moreover, the MEL team
conducted 8 field visits to partners to support them and coach them in filling out the business survey
and provide LINQ with the necessary data to meet their reporting requirements.
IPTT Targets redistribution: Following the six months no-cost project extension, the MEL manager
worked on redistributing the indicator targets for Y3 over the remaining life of the project until the
second quarter of Y4. The redistribution of the targets was approved by USAID and shared with
Social Impact. Reporting against the new distribution of targets started in Q3 of Year 3.
Fuel reduction survey: LINQ conducted a survey for 16 business partners to understand the impact
of continuous fuel and electricity cuts on partner organizations and their ability to maintain business
operations despite the many challenges. Many businesses reported that they were struggling to secure
electricity and fuel to maintain operations. They needed energy sources to operate equipment,
generate and store their products and deliver them to the market. As a result of the severe fuel
shortages, several partners were forced to limit production to a few basic items and lower the
quantity of the products distributed to the market. The full fuel survey reduction report was shared
with USAID.
Farmer's survey: The MEL Manager oversaw the implementation of two farmers surveys in Year 3, in
Quarters 1, and 4 to capture data for the indicators, “Number of farmers applying new technology” and
the “Number of farmers with improved income” as a result of the trainings attended. The surveys
assessed the extent to which the trainings organized by LINQ helped farmers and food producers
improve their economic situation by learning and implementing new practices and how effective field
visits were as a training tool. The sample was selected at a standard 95% confidence level and 5%
margin of error. Overall, 450 farmers and food processors were surveyed during the past year. The
population was identified based on several factors such as the type and content of different trainings,
seasonality, and possibility of applying new technology among participants. The surveys were
conducted by external enumerators using remote data collection methods over the phone and
WhatsApp.
Data Quality Assessment: The MEL team prepared the necessary documents and collaborated with
Social Impact for a Data Quality Assessment conducted remotely in January 2021.
Collaboration, Learning and Adapting: As part of its Collaboration, Learning and Adapting strategy,
one of the LINQ team’s approaches is to conduct internal After-Action Reviews (AAR) and Pause
and Reflect Sessions to assess current practices, identify opportunities to improve and adapt
accordingly.
During the Year 3 of the project, two AAR sessions were organized as follows:
One session was conducted in December in coordination with the technical team, aimed at
discussing the quality of field visits as a possible alternative for public trainings that might
become difficult to carry out with the COVID-19 lockdown. During the meeting, the team
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Lebanon Investment in Quality (LINQ) Annual Progress Report – Y3, October 2020-September 2021agreed on quality standards that need to be emphasized to partners and partner organizations
when conducting field visits.
A second session was conducted in May 2021 to capture the learning extracted from the
findings of the farmers survey carried out in April. The purpose of the meeting was to
brainstorm with the technical team on ideas that could help improve the impact of these
trainings and better support the farmers in improving their income.
In addition, the MEL Manager led Pause and Reflect sessions on quarterly basis during the past year,
four in total. The purpose of these Pause and Reflect sessions was to discuss the indicator results of
the quarterly progress reports, plan and agree on next steps. MEL data collected during a quarter
was reviewed and the team reflected on the outputs and outcomes achieved. Successes and challenges
were discussed, and next steps were mapped out in order to ensure the targets will be met for the
next quarter.
Communications and Outreach
During Year 3 of implementation, LINQ developed 5 promotional videos, 5 success stories
highlighting the project’s interventions, organized 5 site visits to USAID representatives and two
partners meetings, as well as 1 stakeholders webinar. LINQ continued using social media and online
platforms to promote the project’s work, and to engage with other development stakeholders. This
ensured proper promotion of the project and generated great engagement from the online
community on USAID Lebanon, USAID Middle East, Land O’Lakes, and LINQ’s social media
platforms.
The videos, success stories and most of LINQ’s activities were promoted on social media platforms.
They attracted new followers to LINQ’s Facebook page and generated engagement and exposure to
USAID’s investments and commitments, and increased visibility for the LINQ activity.
However, several events were cancelled or postponed due to the unstable political situation and the
lockdown following the COVID-19 spread, especially in-person partner meetings and USAID visits.
Audio-Visual Activities
During this year, 5 videos were developed and shared on social media platforms and uploaded on
V37 YouTube channel, 4 of which were filmed at partners’ facilities: Agro Cedrus, Bon Choix, Cidra
and Rim Mills. The videos depicted the transformation the partners facilities underwent following
USAID’s intervention, major improvements that followed the support received and future plans.
Cidra virtual tour: With the surge of COVID-19 cases and the lockdown imposed by the
government, several USAID visits to partners’ premises had to be cancelled/postponed. To be
creative and solution-oriented, LINQ in coordination with USAID, came up with the idea of a virtual
tour video at Cidra to showcase the space, equipment, and operation. Cidra’s owner took the viewer
on a tour of his facility, explaining every stage of the process and highlighting USAID’s contribution
to the success of his business.
Eid El Fitr cooking Video: A cooking tutorial video was shot at LINQ’s partner Message de Paix
kitchen, with the purpose of celebrating Eid El Fitr marking the end of the Holy month of Ramadan.
The chef and his team cooked creative and tasty recipes using ingredients provided by LINQ’s
partners and incorporating them in a creative way. The video was shared on Eid day, on USAID
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