Women Leading the Charge in Sustainable Agrifood Innovation
December 20, 2024, 10:34 pm
In the world of agrifood, women are not just participants; they are pioneers. The Empowering Women in Agrifood (EWA) programme, backed by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), serves as a launchpad for female entrepreneurs. This initiative is a beacon of hope, illuminating the path for women to innovate and lead in creating sustainable food systems.
The 2024 edition of the EWA programme marked a significant milestone, engaging 120 women from 12 countries. These women are not just numbers; they are change-makers. Over six months, they received mentoring, business coaching, and networking opportunities. The results? A staggering 35 startups emerged, raising €13 million in funding. This is not just a statistic; it’s a testament to the transformative power of targeted support.
Among these trailblazers are Greta Budreikė and Ekaterina Šprajc, two women whose stories exemplify the spirit of innovation and sustainability. Their journeys reveal the challenges and triumphs faced by women in the agrifood sector.
Greta Budreikė, co-founder of Tastik, is on a mission to change perceptions about food. Her venture focuses on cricket-based breakfast cereals. Yes, crickets. They are not just a novelty; they are a sustainable protein source. Greta’s journey began with a curiosity about nutrition. She discovered crickets while searching for affordable protein alternatives. This serendipitous encounter led her to a cricket farm, where she was captivated by their potential.
However, the road was not smooth. Greta faced a significant hurdle: the stigma surrounding insect consumption. Many people are hesitant to embrace this alternative protein. To combat this, she turned to education. Workshops, articles, and public talks became her tools. Greta understood that knowledge is power. By informing the public about the nutritional benefits of crickets, she began to shift perceptions.
Navigating regulatory landscapes was another challenge. Each country has different rules regarding alternative proteins. Greta’s experience in EU-funded projects became invaluable. She sought mentorship through the EWA programme, which provided her with the knowledge and connections needed to thrive. Her mentor, Inga Juozapavičienė, played a crucial role in her development. Weekly meetings and clear tasks kept Greta focused and motivated.
Sustainability is at the heart of Tastik. Greta’s commitment to reducing the ecological footprint is evident in every decision. Crickets require less water, feed, and land than traditional livestock. They also emit fewer greenhouse gases. By choosing cricket protein, Greta is not just creating a product; she is inspiring a movement towards responsible consumption.
On the other side of the agrifood spectrum is Ekaterina Šprajc, founder of Edible Thread. Her innovation lies in creating an edible thread for culinary arts. This thread is made from natural materials, allergen-free, and designed to reduce waste. Ekaterina’s journey began with a desire to replace single-use kitchen products. She saw the waste generated by inedible solutions and was determined to find a sustainable alternative.
The development of Edible Thread was not without its challenges. Designing a new product from scratch required extensive research and collaboration. Ekaterina had to immerse herself in mechanical engineering to ensure the pilot machine met her vision. The zero-waste principle guided her every step. Natural ingredients and recycling were non-negotiable.
Funding was another hurdle. Ekaterina sought knowledge in finance, sales, and law to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship. The EWA programme became her ally. It provided her with the tools and networks necessary for growth. The mentorship she received was instrumental in refining her business strategies and expanding her horizons.
Customer feedback has been a driving force in Ekaterina’s journey. She values the input of chefs and culinary enthusiasts, using it to enhance her product. The future of Edible Thread includes developing machines for restaurants, making the product more accessible. This innovative approach aligns with her commitment to sustainability and creativity in the culinary world.
Both Greta and Ekaterina exemplify the impact of the EWA programme. Their stories highlight the importance of support systems for women in agrifood. The programme fosters leadership, confidence, and business acumen. It empowers women to bring their innovative ideas to life.
The success of the EWA programme is not just about numbers; it’s about the stories behind them. Each woman’s journey is a thread in the larger tapestry of sustainable food systems. They are not just creating businesses; they are shaping the future of food.
As we look ahead, the role of women in agrifood will only grow. Their contributions are vital in addressing global challenges such as nutrition and sustainability. The future lies in solutions that combine innovation with responsibility.
For aspiring women entrepreneurs, the message is clear: embrace the challenges. The EWA programme offers invaluable support and resources. It’s a chance to learn, connect, and thrive. The stories of Greta and Ekaterina are just the beginning. They are paving the way for future generations of women in agrifood.
In conclusion, the EWA programme is more than an initiative; it’s a movement. It champions women, fosters innovation, and drives change. The agrifood sector is evolving, and women are at the forefront. Their voices, ideas, and passions are reshaping the landscape of sustainable food systems. The future is bright, and it’s led by women.
The 2024 edition of the EWA programme marked a significant milestone, engaging 120 women from 12 countries. These women are not just numbers; they are change-makers. Over six months, they received mentoring, business coaching, and networking opportunities. The results? A staggering 35 startups emerged, raising €13 million in funding. This is not just a statistic; it’s a testament to the transformative power of targeted support.
Among these trailblazers are Greta Budreikė and Ekaterina Šprajc, two women whose stories exemplify the spirit of innovation and sustainability. Their journeys reveal the challenges and triumphs faced by women in the agrifood sector.
Greta Budreikė, co-founder of Tastik, is on a mission to change perceptions about food. Her venture focuses on cricket-based breakfast cereals. Yes, crickets. They are not just a novelty; they are a sustainable protein source. Greta’s journey began with a curiosity about nutrition. She discovered crickets while searching for affordable protein alternatives. This serendipitous encounter led her to a cricket farm, where she was captivated by their potential.
However, the road was not smooth. Greta faced a significant hurdle: the stigma surrounding insect consumption. Many people are hesitant to embrace this alternative protein. To combat this, she turned to education. Workshops, articles, and public talks became her tools. Greta understood that knowledge is power. By informing the public about the nutritional benefits of crickets, she began to shift perceptions.
Navigating regulatory landscapes was another challenge. Each country has different rules regarding alternative proteins. Greta’s experience in EU-funded projects became invaluable. She sought mentorship through the EWA programme, which provided her with the knowledge and connections needed to thrive. Her mentor, Inga Juozapavičienė, played a crucial role in her development. Weekly meetings and clear tasks kept Greta focused and motivated.
Sustainability is at the heart of Tastik. Greta’s commitment to reducing the ecological footprint is evident in every decision. Crickets require less water, feed, and land than traditional livestock. They also emit fewer greenhouse gases. By choosing cricket protein, Greta is not just creating a product; she is inspiring a movement towards responsible consumption.
On the other side of the agrifood spectrum is Ekaterina Šprajc, founder of Edible Thread. Her innovation lies in creating an edible thread for culinary arts. This thread is made from natural materials, allergen-free, and designed to reduce waste. Ekaterina’s journey began with a desire to replace single-use kitchen products. She saw the waste generated by inedible solutions and was determined to find a sustainable alternative.
The development of Edible Thread was not without its challenges. Designing a new product from scratch required extensive research and collaboration. Ekaterina had to immerse herself in mechanical engineering to ensure the pilot machine met her vision. The zero-waste principle guided her every step. Natural ingredients and recycling were non-negotiable.
Funding was another hurdle. Ekaterina sought knowledge in finance, sales, and law to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship. The EWA programme became her ally. It provided her with the tools and networks necessary for growth. The mentorship she received was instrumental in refining her business strategies and expanding her horizons.
Customer feedback has been a driving force in Ekaterina’s journey. She values the input of chefs and culinary enthusiasts, using it to enhance her product. The future of Edible Thread includes developing machines for restaurants, making the product more accessible. This innovative approach aligns with her commitment to sustainability and creativity in the culinary world.
Both Greta and Ekaterina exemplify the impact of the EWA programme. Their stories highlight the importance of support systems for women in agrifood. The programme fosters leadership, confidence, and business acumen. It empowers women to bring their innovative ideas to life.
The success of the EWA programme is not just about numbers; it’s about the stories behind them. Each woman’s journey is a thread in the larger tapestry of sustainable food systems. They are not just creating businesses; they are shaping the future of food.
As we look ahead, the role of women in agrifood will only grow. Their contributions are vital in addressing global challenges such as nutrition and sustainability. The future lies in solutions that combine innovation with responsibility.
For aspiring women entrepreneurs, the message is clear: embrace the challenges. The EWA programme offers invaluable support and resources. It’s a chance to learn, connect, and thrive. The stories of Greta and Ekaterina are just the beginning. They are paving the way for future generations of women in agrifood.
In conclusion, the EWA programme is more than an initiative; it’s a movement. It champions women, fosters innovation, and drives change. The agrifood sector is evolving, and women are at the forefront. Their voices, ideas, and passions are reshaping the landscape of sustainable food systems. The future is bright, and it’s led by women.