On November 26–27, 2024, Vilnius hosted the annual meeting of the GRASS CEILING project consortium, bringing together over 50 participants from nine European countries. Researchers, experts, and women innovators discussed the project’s progress, challenges, and future plans aimed at fostering innovation and strengthening women’s roles in rural areas.
The first day of the meeting was integrated into the “Agri-Food Forum 2024,” where one of the key themes was “Empowering Women in the AgriFood Sector: Driving Innovation and Sustainability.” A highlight of the event was a special panel discussion featuring the project coordinator, Prof. Sally Shortall, alongside other experts. The discussion emphasized the main barriers faced by women in rural areas and explored solutions to overcome these challenges.
Stories and insights from women innovators (participants of the living labs) were shared using the “pecha-kucha” method, offering an engaging format for presenting real-life experiences and lessons learned, which foster innovation in agriculture and the agri-food sector.
Discussions highlighted the need to promote gender-sensitive funding, develop targeted and digital training, and improve communication to ensure effective support for women. The importance of stronger policy measures to create a favourable environment for women’s entrepreneurship in rural areas was also emphasized.
The second day of the meeting was dedicated to researchers and experts, focusing on the strategy for implementing future project activities and analysing the results achieved thus far.
The GRASS CEILING project continues to drive innovation, reduce barriers for women in rural areas, and strengthen their roles in the agricultural and agri-food sectors.
Learn more about the project: https://www.grassceiling.eu/