This session will showcase lessons learned from the experiences of small-scale producers in meeting the requirements for participation in certified supply chains. We draw upon two FAO activities to provide the specificity of a case study and the generality of these problems within broader trends found through empirical studies. We use a case study from a project in Guatemala that partnered with private and public organizations to certify small-scale producers for GlobalGAP standards in the horticulture sector targeting high-value markets. We use a literature review of empirical studies and project reports to situate this case study within broader trends. An ‘impacts pathway’ was developed to understand how antecedent variables at farm, value chain, standard system and institutional levels impact the profitability and ways in which farmers participate in certified supply chains. During this session we will discuss the role of partnerships in preparing smallholder farmers for certification, the challenges encountered during the implementation and certification of GAP, and the practical ways found to link small-scale producers to certified supply chains for both domestic and export markets.