The FLIARA project is bringing together 20 ambassadors selected from 200 women leading innovative practices across 10 European countries. These women are not only transforming rural and farming communities with their groundbreaking ideas but also creating a strong network of knowledge-sharing and collaboration through the FLIARA Community of Practice. We spoke with four inspiring ambassadors—M.Sc. Alžbeta Nagyová, Ph.D. (Czech Republic), Saša Kržič (Slovenia), Natalia Díaz (Spain), and Blátnaid Gallagher (Ireland)—to explore their innovation journeys and the impact of FLIARA on their work.
The Power of Inspiration and Community
For Alžbeta Nagyová, innovator at Farma Bezdínek in the Czech Republic, FLIARA represents an opportunity to inspire more women to take bold steps in rural entrepreneurship. “I hope we can inspire girls and women to not be afraid, to try new things, to look for new possibilities, and never give up,” she says. Through FLIARA, she has connected with like-minded individuals and gained new ideas to support her community and encourage young people to be proactive about their futures.
Networking and shared learning are central themes across all the ambassadors’ experiences. Blátnaid Gallagher, who leads innovation through Galway Wool in Ireland, emphasises the importance of peer-to-peer learning and support. “Networking, learning from each other, and peer-to-peer motivation are the reasons why I’m so happy to be part of FLIARA,” she shares. “Listening to one another’s stories and experiences, taking guidance from experts, and inspiring fellow ambassadors is crucial.”
Unlocking Opportunities Through Networking
Saša Kržič, an innovator from Slovenia, highlights how FLIARA has helped her develop new connections and find funding opportunities for future projects. “Participating in the FLIARA Community of Practice has given me valuable insights and networking opportunities. I’ve learnt about funding sources and ways to grow our innovative practices,” she explains.
Similarly, Natalia Díaz from Spain, founder of Ecoalpispa, sees FLIARA as a platform to amplify the voices of women in rural areas. “Until now, we haven’t been heard as much as we should. FLIARA is a loudspeaker for our issues and our efforts, ensuring that real change can happen,” she states. For her, rural women’s innovations are not just about personal success but about driving social and environmental transformations.
Building a Sustainable Future for Women in Rural Innovation
One of the biggest takeaways from these conversations is the resilience and determination of women innovators. They see FLIARA not just as a network but as a catalyst for long-term change. As Blátnaid Gallagher puts it, “Women are incredible organisers, managers, and entrepreneurs. Once we harness our skills and knowledge, we have a fantastic recipe for success in agriculture and rural enterprise.”
By connecting women across Europe, FLIARA is laying the foundation for stronger, more inclusive rural innovation. Through shared experiences, funding opportunities, and collaborative support, these Ambassadors and the broader FLIARA community are shaping the future of sustainable farming and rural entrepreneurship.
The journey of these women proves that innovation thrives where collaboration exists. As the FLIARA network grows, so does the impact of women-led solutions, inspiring the next generation of rural entrepreneurs to dream big and take action.