EWA: Empowering Women in Agrifood
The EWA (Empowering Women in Agrifood) program, organized by EIT Food, was a six-month initiative aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs in the agrifood sector across Central and Eastern Europe. Focused on fostering innovation and leadership, the program offered participants access to over 20 hours of personalized mentorship, business development training, and networking opportunities with key players in the agrifood industry.
Throughout the program, women from Poland, Ukraine, and Hungary honed their entrepreneurial skills, developed their business ideas, and connected with a diverse, supportive community. The program culminated in a final pitch event where 10 standout innovators showcased their projects, with the winner receiving €10,000 to further develop their idea.
EWA has successfully helped many women turn their visions into sustainable businesses, contributing to the future of agrifood innovation.
What EWA Offered
Over 20 hours of tailored mentorship, where each participant worked closely with a dedicated mentor to develop their business strategies and strengthen their ideas.
Business development workshops focusing on key aspects such as sustainability, innovation, and leadership within the agrifood industry.
Networking opportunities to connect participants with leaders in the sector, investors, and like-minded entrepreneurs from across Europe.
Financial support to help turn innovative concepts into successful ventures. The winner received a prize of €10,000, while all participants benefitted from additional resources, including a €1,000 stipend to aid their program participation.
Legacy and Outcomes
The EWA (Empowering Women in Agrifood) program empowered over 200 women by providing them with the knowledge, tools, and mentorship needed to succeed in the agrifood sector. Participants emerged with enhanced business skills, expanded professional networks, and a deeper confidence in their entrepreneurial potential.
At the program’s conclusion, Monika Gaszyńska was awarded the top prize for her innovative project, SERio – Plant-Based Cheese, a lupin-based cheese alternative that offers a balanced nutritional profile. Her project reflects the spirit of sustainable innovation and the future of alternative proteins, addressing both consumer health and environmental sustainability.
The EWA program has made a lasting impact, contributing to the development of groundbreaking agrifood startups and fostering a vibrant community of female entrepreneurs committed to driving positive change in the industry.
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