Women entrepreneurs shine at EWA 2024 Greece Demo Day
The EWA 2024 Greece Demo Day celebrated the achievements of ten women entrepreneurs, showcasing innovative projects in the agrifood sector. Organised by AWomanCanBe.org, the event highlighted the transformative role of women in sustainable agriculture and food innovation.
The Empowering Women in Agrifood (EWA) programme in Greece concluded with a dynamic pitching event and conference, hosted by AWomanCanBe.org under the auspices of the Ministry of Rural Development and Food. Over the past six months, ten women entrepreneurs received training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, refining their business ideas to address challenges in the agrifood sector.
Held at the ATRAKTOS venue, the event featured panels on "AI in the agrifood sector" and "Motivations for empowering women in agrifood entrepreneurship", exploring the intersection of innovation, sustainability, and gender inclusivity in agrifood. Esteemed speakers included policymakers, industry leaders, and academics, who discussed the integration of artificial intelligence and the importance of empowering women in agrifood entrepreneurship.
Recognising excellence: the award winners
After presenting their ideas to a three-member jury, three outstanding projects were recognised:
- First Prize (€10,000): Myrovolos Organics by Argiro Koutsouradi, producing premium organic herbs on the island of Chios using a vertically integrated approach that ensures quality from planting to packaging.
"We aim to reintroduce aromatic plants and herbs into our lives, educating the younger generation," said Koutsouradi. - Second Prize (€5,000): Aspasia Sophia Pastrikou, producing aromatic plants and tropical fruits in Kos.
Inspired by the ancient physician Hippocrates, she cultivates herbs
and tropical fruits with sustainable practices like regenerative
farming and smart water sensors.
"I want locals and visitors to experience a cultural and gastronomic journey while highlighting Kos’s natural heritage," shared Pastrikou. - Visibility Pack: Idiotropa by Fotini Chatzi, focusing on dehydrated fruits and vegetables. This recognition includes an invitation to present her project at the Women in Agrifood Stories in Portugal.
Empowering Women in Agrifood
The EWA programme, implemented in Greece by AWomanCanBe.org, supports women entrepreneurs by providing tailored training, one-to-one mentoring, and access to networks of investors and experts. This year’s conference emphasized the importance of innovation and sustainability, with panels addressing topics such as AI applications in agriculture and the motivations driving women entrepreneurs.
The event showcased the critical role women play in shaping the future of sustainable food systems, reaffirming EIT Food’s commitment to reducing gender disparities and fostering inclusivity in agrifood innovation.
Join us for the Grand Finale!
The Women in Agrifood Stories 2024 will take place in Lisbon on December 4th. Celebrate the grand finale of the EWA programme by EIT Food with leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators shaping the future of agrifood.
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