Editor’s Note: This post was created in collaboration with and with financial support from EIT Food.
The Empowering Women in Agrifood (EWA) programme by EIT Food provides an unparalleled platform for female entrepreneurs to drive innovation in creating a sustainable food system. Supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), a body of the European Union, this initiative champions women in agriculture by equipping them with the tools, skills, and networks needed to succeed. Women’s contributions to sustainable food systems and rural communities are invaluable, yet often overlooked, and this programme seeks to bridge that gap by fostering leadership, confidence, and business acumen among participants.
The 2024 edition of the EWA programme marked its fifth successful year, engaging 120 female entrepreneurs from 12 countries, including Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, and Ukraine. Over the course of six months, participants benefited from a comprehensive suite of mentoring, business coaching, and networking opportunities, alongside specialised training offered in local languages. Remarkably, the initiative has led to the creation of 35 startups and the raising of €13 million in funding, demonstrating its transformative impact on the sector.
As part of this series, we will feature interviews with three remarkable winners from the 2024 EWA programme. Each interview will offer a unique glimpse into the ways this programme empowers women to drive meaningful change in the agri-food sector. Let’s get right into it!
Interview with Ekaterina Šprajc, founder of Edible Thread
Today, we are thrilled to interview Ekaterina Šprajc, the founder of Edible Thread which specialises in producing an edible thread used in culinary arts for tying ingredients together. This thread, made from natural materials without allergens, is available in various colors and sizes. Ekaterina has developed both a prototype and a pilot version of the machine and intends to expand production capacity and enhance features based on customer feedback, with a focus on the zero-waste principle
Thanks to her innovative ideas, Ekaterina took home the grand prize of €10,000! In this interview, we aim to delve deeper into her journey, her groundbreaking work in the agri-food sector, and how the EWA programme played a pivotal role in her entrepreneurial growth.
Can you start by telling us about the inspiration behind Edible Thread and how your journey into the agrifood sector began?
The inspiration behind Edible Thread came a few years ago when I was thinking about how to replace existing inedible solutions for binding ingredients. Seeing the large amounts of single-use kitchen products that are used and discarded daily motivated me to find a sustainable alternative that reduces waste and brings innovation to the culinary world.
My journey into the agri-food sector began after graduating from the Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, where I gained a broad spectrum of knowledge and experience in the food industry and R&D, which inspired me to pursue entrepreneurship.
What motivated you to specialise in FMCG and Edible Thread, and how do you think these products contribute to a sustainable food system?
My motivation comes from a passion for innovation and a desire to create sustainable products. Edible threads significantly contribute to a sustainable food system by reducing waste as they are entirely consumable. Additionally, they provide chefs and enthusiasts with new possibilities in creating and presenting dishes, which further encourages creativity and sustainability in the culinary field.
What were the biggest challenges you faced while developing the prototype and pilot version of the Edible Thread machine, and how did you overcome them to ensure the product aligns with the zero-waste principle?
The biggest challenge was designing and developing an entirely new product/prototype and pilot machine for Edible Thread, as such a product does not exist on the market. The process required many iterations and adjustments. I had to delve into the field of mechanical engineering to convey precise instructions to our partners for the development of the pilot machine.
Maintaining the zero-waste principle was achieved through the use of natural ingredients and technology that minimizes waste and recycles all material remnants.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced while developing your business?
During the development of the business, I faced challenges such as securing funding, enhancing knowledge in areas like finance, sales, and law, and finding optimal solutions for production. Additionally, building a support network and identifying market opportunities were significant challenges.
When did you first hear about the EWA programme, and why did you decide to participate in it?
I first heard about the EWA programme through industry colleagues who recommended it as an excellent development opportunity. I decided to participate in the programme to gain additional knowledge, skills, and financial support needed for the further development of my business. The programme also allowed me to develop my business and network with other entrepreneurs, which was extremely beneficial.
How did the mentorship and training during the EWA programme influence your approach to Edible Thread? What would you say are the three main things you have taken from this programme?
The mentorship and training during the EWA program provided me with valuable insights and support in developing my product.
The three main takeaways from the program are: enhancing business strategies, networking with other female entrepreneurs and mentors, and access to resources that have helped me further develop Edible Thread.
As you plan to expand production capacity, what strategies are you implementing to ensure the edible thread remains accessible to diverse culinary markets while maintaining its allergen-free and eco-friendly characteristics?
After completing the development of Edible Thread in real-world conditions, our plan is to develop a machine for producing edible threads for example directly in restaurants to increase scalability and allow everyone to make the threads. This will reduce financial costs and increase accessibility. Strategies include investing in advanced technologies and optimising production processes, close collaboration with renowned restaurants and culinary schools, and developing new products that will meet various market needs.
The focus on natural and allergen-free ingredients remains essential.
Sustainability and the use of natural materials are core values of Edible Thread. How do you ensure your products and processes align with this commitment?
We ensure that our products and processes align with sustainability principles through strict quality controls, the use of natural ingredients, and minimising waste at all stages of production. Every step in our process is designed with a focus on environmental friendliness and sustainability.
How has customer feedback influenced the design and features of the edible thread, and what future enhancements are you prioritising to meet evolving needs in the culinary arts?
Customer feedback has been crucial in shaping the design and features of Edible Thread. Based on their suggestions, we are working on improving product adaptability, expanding the range of colors and flavors, and enhancing functionality.
Our priority is the further development of edible thread directly in restaurants with chefs, i.e., in real-world conditions, to meet the increasingly sophisticated needs in the culinary field.
To conclude this interview, what advice would you give to other women entrepreneurs considering joining the EWA programme?
I would advise other women entrepreneurs not to fear challenges and to take advantage of the opportunity that the EWA programme offers. The programme provides invaluable support, knowledge, and networking that can significantly help in developing a business. Be open to learning, connecting, and sharing experiences, as this will help you grow and develop your entrepreneurial venture.
Celebrating success and looking ahead
The EWA programme continues demonstrating the power of targeted support for women entrepreneurs in the agri-food sector. Providing mentorship, networking, and hands-on training, this program enables participants to bring their innovative ideas to life while fostering a more inclusive and sustainable food system. The success stories from the 2024 edition highlight the programme’s far-reaching impact, from securing funding to scaling businesses and entering new markets.
Read the orginal article: https://www.eu-startups.com/2024/12/empowering-women-in-agrifood-interview-with-ekaterina-sprajc-founder-of-edible-thread/
