Many CSAs opt for a hybrid model of organization: While a for-profit company or
producer cooperative handles the commercial marketing activities, an externally-funded
NGO provides technical assistance, capacity building services, management skills,
infrastructure and facilitation between rural producers and urban consumers. More than
in Western countries, this kind of support is often crucial for the success of CSAs in
urban India. NGOs also enable farmers to access capital needed to expand the product
range, scale up production volumes and invest in infrastructure such as greenhouses and
facilities for packing and storage.