National case studies on Women-led Innovations in Farming

The 10 national case studies analyse 100 innovative farming practices led by women across Europe. Some of these are very recent (one or two years), others are more established (10 or more years).  In some cases, the farms were inherited, in others they were started from scratch. Farms vary in size (from 2 to more than 1,000 hectares), also considering the significant differences in the agricultural structure of the analysed countries.  

Several women in all the countries engage in organic, regenerative and agroecological farming practices, ensuring diversification and the highest well-being of the animals they raise on the farm. Many innovations are based on the desire to preserve local crop varieties and breeds, which are considered more sustainable and better suited to the local environment. In addition, we found experiences where women are using innovative technologies such as milking robots, automatic feed dispenser, biogas facilities to produce energy, etc. 

Multifunctional farming is a very common strategy, which also allows women to offer new services. This may involve opening a farmhouse, a farm-based restaurant or a kindergarten, as well as organizing training courses, workshops and activities (e.g. cooking workshops, guided tours and trainings with animals, animal assisted therapy, music therapy), and hosting events (e.g. birthday parties, escape rooms). Another feature is the processing of agricultural products and direct sales. 

In the experience of the women interviewed across countries, engaging in innovative farming practices is not an easy path. Many women complain about limited access to finance, land, specialised courses, and advisory services, along with bureaucratic hurdles, gender stereotyping, the issue of balancing family and work responsibilities, and inadequate infrastructures, especially in remote rural areas. Being determined, courageous and a little bit “crazy” is a must to engage in such pathway.  

At the same time, women also point out many favourable conditions that helped them carry on their innovations, including, receiving help from their partner and family, receiving support from local municipalities and, above all, being part of strong networks connecting other local farmers and women entrepreneurs. 

The impacts of their business are relevant and diverse, even if women are usually modest in talking about their activities. 

Their innovations contribute to making rural places more liveable for local people, but also more attractive to tourists. 

They are spreading awareness about environmental sustainability, healthy lifestyle, showing the benefits of living close to nature, and the value of producing and consuming local crops. They are challenging patriarchal normality and gender norms in farming and in rural areas in general 

Overall, the 10 national case studies suggest that women leading agricultural innovation are paving the way for future generations by demonstrating how agriculture, with all its potential multifunctionality, can offer creative and sustainable ways of earning a living in a rural area.