This virtual sourcebook is the product of extensive collaboration with dedicated professionals in many key research organizations in different parts of the world. The ILAC initiative is grateful for the sterling support it receives from these organizations and from the individuals who write the briefs that make up the sections of this sourcebook. Their time and commitment is sincerely appreciated. They provide the experience and the ideas upon which the ILAC initiative can continue to develop and grow.

ILAC would like to thank especially those organizations that have sponsored this initiative over the years. Without that support,this sourcebook would neither have been begun nor completed. We are therefore indebted to current and past ILAC donors including the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs (DGIS), the Rockefeller Foundation, the German Gesellschaft für Technische Zusammenarbeit and Bundesministerium für Zusammenarbeit (GTZ–BMZ) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).

Finally, ILAC deeply appreciates the general assistance received from Douglas Horton, Ronald Mackay, Jamie Watts and Cristina Sette for their roles in editing this sourcebook and managing its production.