The University of Thessaly, in collaboration with the organization “AWomanCanBe.org,” successfully organized an educational event aimed at women entrepreneurs or those aspiring to engage in the agrifood sector. The event, which attracted a substantial number of participants with a strong interest in entrepreneurship and innovation within the sector, provided a significant opportunity for networking, learning, and support.
The primary objective of the event was to inform attendees about the European program Empowering Women in Agrifood (EWA) 2025, which is implemented by the European organization EIT Food in collaboration with AWomanCanBe.org. This program offers women the opportunity to enhance their entrepreneurial skills and develop sustainable business ideas in the agrifood sector. Through participation in the program, women can acquire valuable tools for business development and the enhancement of their innovative efforts in the agrifood domain.
The event commenced with a welcoming address from the Rector of the University of Thessaly, Professor Charalambos Billinis, who emphasized the significance of the event and highlighted the successes and advancements of the University in the agrifood sector. He referenced the five distinct Departments of the School of Agricultural Sciences, as well as the University’s esteemed Veterinary Department, which is ranked among the top 100 globally.
Following this, a comprehensive presentation was delivered by the Vice-Rector for Innovation, Internationalization, Collaborations, and Digital Governance, and Head of One Planet Thessaly, Professor Chrysi Laspidou. She underscored the importance of empowering women entrepreneurs in Thessaly, emphasizing their vital role in the development of the agrifood sector in Greece.
Subsequently, Ms. Vanessa Archontidou, a representative of “AWomanCanBe.org,” presented the application process for the EWA 2025 program and addressed questions from the audience, elucidating the benefits and opportunities the program offers to women entrepreneurs.
Notably, Ms. Irini-Christina Spanouli, the previous year’s winner of EWA in Greece and founder of the business Karpológio, participated in a panel discussion. Ms. Spanouli shared her personal experiences from the program, highlighting how her involvement contributed to the growth of her family business and her personal development as an entrepreneur.
The event concluded with a creative workshop, during which participants, organized into groups and guided by mentors, collaborated to devise solutions to real challenges in the agrifood sector. This workshop facilitated the practical application of knowledge and fostered collaboration and creativity among participants.
The event concluded with a creative workshop, during which participants, organized into groups and guided by mentors, collaborated to devise solutions to real challenges in the agrifood sector. This workshop facilitated the practical application of knowledge and fostered collaboration and creativity among participants.
