The John Paul II Foundation was established in 2007 from the decennial commitment of the Italians Dioceses, and operates in the development field to ensure social inclusion of all people and to promote the social, economic and cultural development of people and territories. Over the last decade, John Paul II Foundation has gained extensive experience in promoting and managing rural development projects. Since 2016 JPII has been active in the design and implementation of an integrated strategy for promoting small and medium farmer agri-businesses in Lebanon, with a focus on quality improvement along agricultural value chains, sustainability and inclusiveness. The foundation’s staff have expertise in rural development and agribusiness. The organization is already engaged in improving quality standard production and commercialization of fruits and vegetables, both in the national and international markets and developed in-depth knowledge of these value chains.

Small farmers is a digital platform promoting connection and networking among small farmers engaged in the application of a joint production reorganization strategy in different countries about Date (Palestine), Cherry (Lebanon), Apricot (Lebanon) and Aloe Vera (Jordan).

AICS, the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, is the public agency that deals with the promotion of international development, public aid and humanitarian emergencies.
The two projects developed by JPII about cherry and apricot rural development in Lebanon have been both financed by AICS.