<p>There is growing awareness around the world that linking the agricultural and industrial sectors will facilitate the achievement of sustainable development in local communities. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to identify the necessities of linking the agricultural sector and conversion and complementary industries in rural areas of Guilan province. The required information has been obtained through documentary sources as well as survey studies based on key questions between the two groups of university professors /experts and gardeners. Based on the findings of this study, the development of horticultural processing industries has a key role in supporting the various stages of production and export. Therefore, achieving sustainable development in the smallholder province of Guilan with the ability of land fertility and agricultural function requires support for the production and processing of horticultural products. One of the most important support strategies is to turn smallholders into large owners or large manufacturing companies that are more successful in researching, producing, processing, and supplying the product.</p>