Investments in land for agriculture from both international and domestic investors have the potential to support sustainable development. Yet, if investments and the legal frameworks that govern them are not structured carefully and equitably, these projects can cause significant social and environmental degradation and further exacerbate climate change. These opportunities and risks will be heightened as demand for agricultural land increases and host nations around the world seek to attract greater levels of investment.

Actors in the public, private and civil society sectors who are concerned with sustainable development confront multiple challenges in shaping international investment in agriculture to achieve desired outcomes. These challenges include developing robust legal and fiscal frameworks, negotiating equitable deals, mitigating climate and environmental impacts, and protecting human rights. 

The 2026 Executive Training on Sustainable Investments in Agriculture, hosted by the Columbia Center on Sustainable Investment (CCSI), will address these issues and more. The virtual training will be held May 11-20, 2026. The interdisciplinary program provides an overview of pressing issues related to agricultural investments, as well as an introduction to relevant practical skills.

In addition to interactive, live training sessions led by Columbia faculty, CCSI’s research team, and sustainable development practitioners, the training also provides opportunity for dialogue among government, civil society and private sector peers from around the world. 

CCSI is accepting applications here on a rolling basis until March 13, 2026. Applicants are encouraged to apply early to increase the likelihood of being accepted.

The program fee will be waived for representatives of civil society organizations (must be registered as a non-profit organization in your home jurisdiction) and government officials from low- and middle-income countries. A program fee of USD $500 applies to all other participants. For more information about the course, and to access the application, visit our website here.