Since February 24, nearly 4 million Ukrainians, including teenagers, have migrated to Croatia, Hungary, Poland, and the Baltic countries to escape the war following Russia’s invasion of their country. They have received support from NGOs and citizens to cover basic living costs such as food, clothing, and housing. However, many wish to start earning and continue developing their careers.
With the support of EIT Food, Smion (ex. Lean Startup Croatia) organized GoAgriTech workshops to empower young people by providing essential knowledge and boosting their confidence to pursue careers in the AgriTech or FoodTech industries. The workshops also aimed to foster networking and connections with experts in the agri-food and agritech industries. This exposure of young Ukrainian talent to the agricultural and food sectors has the potential to significantly impact the future labor market structure in the EU’s agri-food industry.
GoAgriTech workshops captivated high school students
At an attractive location in Zagreb, participants received training on crafting entrepreneurial ideas, defining problems, value propositions, and other intriguing topics, following the lean startup approach. The workshops were led by entrepreneurship experts with two Ukrainian-speaking trainers familiar with the content. Through this hands-on approach, teams gained insights into careers in the agri-food sector and tackled engaging challenges within their groups. Alongside the education sessions, Ukrainian high school students enjoyed social and fun activities, lunch, and excellent company!
After learning how to create and refine an entrepreneurial idea, the participants had the chance to present their projects to everyone. The project’s primary goal was to empower young people, providing them with the necessary knowledge and confidence to continue their careers in the AgriTech or FoodTech industries, while fostering networking opportunities with industry experts.
About the Organizers
EIT Food Initiative
EIT Food is the largest and most dynamic food innovation community. It actively promotes innovation to build a food system that delivers healthy and sustainable food. Supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), an EU body, the EIT Food initiative invests in projects, organizations, and individuals who share its goals for a healthy and sustainable food system. By unlocking the innovation potential in businesses and universities, it encourages startups in the agri-food sector to develop new technologies and products. Entrepreneurs and professionals are equipped with the skills needed to transform the food system, while consumers are placed at the center of their work, helping to build trust in the origins of their food. EIT Food is one of nine innovation communities established by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), an independent EU body founded in 2008 to foster innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe.
Lean Startup Croatia
Lean Startup Croatia is an innovation agency founded in 2013. 2022. Its mission is to create a culture of sustainable entrepreneurship and successful companies through a structured approach to developing entrepreneurial ideas and startups, leveraging and sharing knowledge, contacts, and experience.
As an innovation agency, Lean Startup Croatia supports and educates the startup, entrepreneurial, and academic communities in applying tools for the efficient development of new products and services. It has successfully implemented over 100 innovation projects and programs in several countries worldwide, collaborating with entrepreneurial support institutions, companies, and educational institutions. Additionally, the organization designs and leads innovation programs, projects, and events, helping organizations drive innovation.
