The Women’s Academy for Rural Innovation

About

Despite making up half of the population, women still face structural barriers that prevent many from reaching their full potential. In rural areas, the challenges are even greater. Alongside the gender gap, women must also overcome the urban-rural divide. Distance and limited opportunities often compel young women to leave their homes in pursuit of their dreams.

At the European Leadership Academy, we are dedicated to addressing these challenges head-on. Following a successful first edition in Spain in 2022, we are thrilled to announce that The Women's Academy for Rural Innovation is heading to Croatia this November! This unique programme empowers women from rural areas to shape the digital age from the beauty of their own villages.

This year we’re expanding our reach, welcoming participants not only from the EU 27 but also from the Western Balkans Six, Ukraine, Iceland, Türkiye, and Switzerland. Europe’s rural areas are essential to our economy and society, playing a vital role in feeding the world while preserving our natural heritage. By creating new opportunities through technology, we can revitalise Europe’s heartlands and empower rural women to lead.

The Women’s Academy for Rural Innovation offers a one-of-a-kind learning experience. Participants will gain essential skills, engage in meaningful dialogue with mentors and experts from across Europe, and tackle the most pressing issues facing rural women. They will also serve as strong examples and role models for other women in similar settings, showcasing the power of innovation and leadership.

Whether you’re a student eager to bring knowledge back to your village or a woman living and working in a rural area, this is your chance to make a lasting impact. Apply today and join us in Croatia for an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the opportunity of a lifetime to lead and innovate from the heart of your community. We can't wait to meet you there!

Course leader

Berta Herrero

Target group

The programme is open to women connected to rural areas in the EU, whether it be through their residence or family background. While they will come from diverse backgrounds, they will all share a strong interest in leveraging new technologies and innovation to create a positive impact and foster economic growth in their region.
We are looking for women who want to make a difference – whether they are specialists in agriculture, engineering, or eco-tourism, and whether they aspire to be disruptive innovators, businesswomen or digital nomads. The programme welcomes every background and is tailored to helping participants acquire the skills needed to lead Europe’s rural areas into the forefront of the digital revolution.
Participants are selected by an expert jury that looks for well-rounded candidates with a demonstrable track record in driving forward new ideas and seizing opportunities in their rural communities, or strong willingness to do so. The Jury will be interested in applicants’ future plans and ambitions, and in their curiosity to better understand the potential of technology in driving equality and opportunity in their area.

Course aim

Our goal is to close the double divide - gender and urban-rural - that is preventing women in rural and depopulated areas from becoming the leaders that our world needs.
The Women’s Academy for Rural Innovation presents a unique opportunity and learning experience and will take place in the heart of Croatia. Participants will have the chance to dialogue and learn from mentors and expert speakers drawn from across Europe. Together they will debate the most pressing issues facing women in rural areas and be encouraged to explore solutions that can deliver tangible results in their region. They will also act as strong examples and role models to other women in rural settings.

Fee info

The selected candidates receive a full scholarship that covers all costs of the programme, including travel.