Empowering Women in Agrifood (EWA) Program: Driving Innovation and Support for Women Entrepreneurs

The Empowering Women in Agrifood (EWA) program is a pioneering initiative designed to support and amplify the impact of women entrepreneurs in the agriculture and food sectors. Launched in 2020 and now entering its third edition in Czechia, the program stands out as a critical platform for fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth among women-led ventures.

Program Overview

Program EWA is more than just an accelerator; it is a comprehensive support system that nurtures women entrepreneurs through well-structured activities and resources. The program offers mentoring, coaching, and educational workshops to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the competitive agrifood industry.

Participants in the EWA program benefit from:

• Mentoring and Coaching: Personalized guidance from experienced mentors and coaches helps participants refine their business strategies, overcome challenges, and achieve their goals.
• Educational Workshops: Tailored workshops cover essential topics such as business skills, food safety, marketing, and intellectual property, providing practical insights and tools for success.
• Networking Opportunities: The program facilitates connections with industry experts, potential partners, and other entrepreneurs, fostering a supportive community and opening doors to new opportunities.

Success Stories and Impact

The EWA program has consistently demonstrated its value through the success of its participants. Each year, the program selects a diverse group of innovative projects that showcase various ideas and solutions in the agri-food sector. From sustainable packaging solutions to upcycled food products, the EWA program highlights the creativity and potential of women entrepreneurs.

For instance, previous participants have developed groundbreaking projects such as:

• Sustainable Packaging Solutions: Mycelium and other natural materials create compostable packaging alternatives, reducing environmental impact.
• Upcycled Food Products: Coffee by-products are transformed into innovative food items like syrups and gummies, addressing waste and creating new value.
• Herbal and Local Food Products: We offer natural and healthy alternatives through locally sourced herbs, syrups, teas, and ice cream.

The 2024 Edition

The third edition of the EWA program in Czechia, officially launched on June 13, 2024, has already set a high standard. The kickoff event, Matchmaking, brought together ten selected participants and ten mentors for an inspiring day of networking and presentations. Each participant had the opportunity to pitch their business ideas, receive valuable feedback, and build connections with industry experts.

This year’s cohort includes projects focused on:

• Local Food Stores: Creating non-stop self-service stores with products from local farms.
• Sustainable Herb Production: Developing eco-friendly methods for growing and processing herbs.
• Bee Health: Addressing the issue of bee extinction and supporting bee health through innovative solutions, such as cooperating with restaurants and bringing healthier food products or superfoods.
• Quail Farming: Promoting the benefits of quail eggs and expanding their market presence.

And more!

EWA Final 2024

On November 20, 2024, the EWA program will culminate in an exciting final pitching event where participants will present their refined startups to a panel of esteemed judges. This showcase will highlight the innovative solutions and impactful ideas developed throughout the program. Out of the cohort, two standout startups will be awarded prizes, recognizing their exceptional potential and contribution to the agri-food sector. This final presentation marks the culmination of months of hard work and dedication. It provides a platform for these entrepreneurs to secure crucial funding and support for their following stages of growth.

Looking Ahead

As the EWA program continues to evolve, its commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs remains unwavering. The program’s blend of mentorship, education, and networking provides a robust framework for driving innovation and growth in the agri-food sector. The program’s culmination in November 2024 will see participants present their refined ideas to a panel of judges and compete for initial investment funding, further demonstrating the program’s dedication to supporting impactful and scalable solutions.

The EWA program is more than just an accelerator; it catalyzes change, fostering a community of empowered women leading agrifood innovation. By supporting these visionary entrepreneurs, EWA is helping to shape a more sustainable and inclusive future for the industry.