Women Agrifood Entrepreneurs Gather in Varna, Bulgaria for EWA Masterclass
Ten driven Bulgarian women entrepreneurs recently took part in the EWA Masterclass in Varna, focusing on agrifood legislation, sustainable production models, and leadership skills. The event provided valuable insights into business pitching and effective communication, preparing participants for success in the agrifood sector.
RAPIV organized a Masterclass for 10 women entrepreneurs participating in the EIT Food Empowering Women in Agrifood (EWA) Programme. The event took place in Varna, Bulgaria, on September 27th and 28th, 2024. Dr. Ralitsa Zhekova, Executive Director of RAPIV, opened the event by welcoming the participants and outlining the upcoming activities within the EWA Bulgaria programme.
Masterclass Insights: Food Sector Legislation, Leadership, and Presentation Skills
On the first day of the Masterclass, several important agrifood topics were addressed during the training sessions. Mentees gained insights into the key legislative requirements in the session on "Legal Framework in the Food Sector," led by Assoc. Prof. Antoaneta Stoyanova. They also explored "Models for Implementing Sustainable Production in Agrifood," presented by Chief Assist. Prof. Damyan Kirechev from the University of Economics – Varna. The day’s programme continued with a workshop on "Leadership and Team Management," facilitated by Assoc. Prof. Gergana Slavova and Chief Assist. Prof. Pavlina Ivanova, also from the University of Economics – Varna.
The second day was dedicated to enhancing communication and presentation skills. In the morning, Hristomir Hristov shared the key elements of a successful pitch. Following this, each participant had the opportunity to present their business idea and its development during the EWA programme. Each mentee received valuable feedback on how to improve their presentations and showcase their best at the upcoming Pitching event.
Throughout the event, mentees had numerous opportunities for networking and received expert advice from representatives of the start-up ecosystem, including Viktoria Marinova-Nikolova, PhD, Manager of the District Information Point Varna, and Hristomir Hristov, CEO of the Bulgarian Angels Club - Varna.
Next steps
The local final of the programme is expected to take place on Pitching Day in mid-November! Winners will be honored with cash prizes of €10,000 and €5,000 for their innovative ideas. This event offers participants a unique opportunity to present their ideas professionally, showcasing their creativity and effort. The evaluation process will include six months of invaluable mentorship for the leading participants.
More details are available on the website.
About Regional Agency for Entrepreneurship and Innovations - Varna (RAPIV)
Regional Agency for Entrepreneurship and Innovations - Varna (RAPIV) is a non -governmental non-for-profit organization established in 2002 aiming to stimulate regional economy through the development of entrepreneurship and innovations. Its members include representatives of 4 types of organizations: central and local government, academic and scientific institutions, NGOs and businesses as well as physical persons.
Learn more about Regional Agency for Entrepreneurship and Innovations - Varna (RAPIV) on their web page.
More News from EIT Food North & East
Communication Skills Course Launch for EWA Programme Participants
