This is a presentation on the hatchery operator model under a project supported by GIZ titled "Piloting inclusive business and entrepreneurial models for smallholder farmers and poor value chain actors in Zambia". Hatchery operator model is needed for the following reasons (1) aquaculture growth to provide smallholder farmers with sustained access to quality fish seed is regarded as one of the biggest constraints; and (2) the majority of farmers purchase fingerlings from neighbouring farmers. The recycled fingerlings coupled with lack of quality feed has implications on the production and productivity of smallholder farmers’ ponds.