Programmatic approach to supporting economic recovery and sustainable agricultural development
TRACE PADEO project, funded by the Government of the Netherlands through the World Bank and implemented by Microfinanza in collaboration with UTSS, supports rural entrepreneurs in Tunisia in developing sustainable and job-creating agricultural investments.
The project’s primary objective is to stimulate local investments in the agricultural sector by offering technical and financial support tailored to the needs of entrepreneurs, while strengthening local development dynamics.
One of the project’s main pillars is the creation of decent and sustainable jobs in the agricultural sector.
It provides support to family farms, producer organizations, and MSEs/SMEs, with particular attention given to young people (under 35) and women, combining customized technical coaching with targeted financial assistance.
The objectives of the project
From October 2025 to December 2026, TRACE PADEO focuses its activities in the governorates of Kef and Siliana in Tunisia. A total of 170 investment projects will be supported, including micro-investments, innovative start-ups, and expansion projects.
Who can benefit from TRACE PADEO support?
The project targets rural economic actors who wish to invest in, create, or expand an agricultural activity that generates employment. Eligible applicants include:
- Rural entrepreneurs (SMEs, SARL, SMVDA, SNC, SUARL)
- Family farms
- Producer organizations (GDA, SMSA, GDP, SMSP)
- Micro, small, and medium agri-food enterprises
- Innovative start-ups
TRACE PADEO places a strong emphasis on youth and women entrepreneurship – key drivers of inclusive and sustainable agricultural development – while remaining open to any initiative with strong potential.
TRACE PADEO is designed for rural economic actors who want to invest in, create, or expand an agricultural activity that generates employment in Tunisia.
Tailored financial support for your agricultural investment
- Targeted support to move from an investment idea to its assessment and implementation
- Technical guidance toward sustainable agricultural practices
- Easier access to financing and markets
- A strong local ecosystem connecting producers, services, and partners
The contribution for eligible investments ranges from 20% to 50%, depending on the type of investment (micro-investments, start-ups, or expansion projects) and compliance with environmental and social criteria. This contribution complements the promoter’s own funds and can cover fixed capital needs, working capital, and services. The co-financing rate varies according to the nature of the investment.
How to access the project?
1. Contact the local service desks in Kef or Siliana for an initial orientation with our team.
TRACE PADEO’ Desk – KEF
Phone Kef : +216 54 67 89 01
E-mail: trace-padeo@microfinanza.com
Address : Coworking CIRTA,
Avenue Habib Bourguiba, Immeuble Ctama, 3ᵉ étage,
Kef, Tunisia.
TRACE PADEO’ Desk – SILIANA
Phone Siliana : +216 52 25 90 69
E-mail: trace-padeo@microfinanza.com
Address : at the headquarters of the Regional Union of Industry, Trade and Crafts of Siliana Taieb Mhiri Avenue, Siliana 6100, Tunisia
Complaint Management Procedure
Submitting a complaint regarding TRACE PADEO services and procedures
If you are benefiting from the services or support provided by the TRACE PADEO team in Kef or Siliana, and you believe that your rights have not been respected or that you are not satisfied, you may submit a complaint in accordance with the established procedures.
1. Submission and preliminary review
The complaint is reviewed to verify its admissibility and determine the appropriate course of action. Complaints may be admissible (related to project services or procedures), non-admissible (outside the project’s scope), or sensitive (fraud, corruption, abuse). Anonymous complaints are examined but cannot receive a response.
2. Registration and analysis
Each complaint is recorded in a confidential file. The admissibility review is carried out within 7 working days.
A clear and documented written response is provided within a maximum of 15 working days from the date of submission.
3. Handling of the complaint
Complaints concerning staff or coaches: forwarded to the Management.
Complaints related to procedures: handled by the Project Manager together with the relevant experts.
Sensitive complaints: addressed through a specific procedure in consultation with the World Bank.
4. Archiving and follow-up
All complaints and their corresponding responses are confidentially archived by Microfinanza. Periodic notes are prepared and integrated into the project’s overall reporting to ensure proper follow-up and continuous improvement. Complaints are reported to the World Bank by the Management within the required timeframes.
Download the complaints procedure form on this link.
The complaint form must be duly completed and signed, and sent by email to trace-padeo@microfinanza.com ,
or delivered directly to our service desks in Kef or Siliana.
Manuels of projet
In this section, you can access and download the TRACE PADEO project manuals.
Environmental and Social Management Framework (CGES)
The CGES outlines the team’s responsibilities for assessing, managing, and monitoring the environmental and social risks and impacts associated with the project.
Project Procedures Manual (MOP)
Operational Manual of the support project for economic recovery and job creation in the agri-food sector and rural areas.
Stakeholder Engagement Plan (PMPP)
The PMPP provides the mechanisms for stakeholders to express their concerns and establishes a system to address and menage them.
Environmental and Social Commitment Plan
(ESCP)
The ESCP highlights the need for compliance with the provisions set out in the PMPP, the CGES, the PGM.
Labor Management Procedures (PGM)
The PGM outlines the guidelines for managing collaborations and the good practices for ensuring the protection and well-being of project staff and all workers involved. It identifies the risks faced by personnel and the corresponding mitigation measures.
Procurement Procedure for Investment Subprojects and Supplier Credit (PPM)
This document defines the rules and steps for procuring goods and services. It also sets out the procedures for purchasing equipment in full compliance with regulatory requirements.
Project Procurement Strategy for Development (PPSD)
The PPSD outlines the procurement context, market analysis, risks, and institutional capacities, in line with World Bank requirements.
Latest updates
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