In an effort to support local seed companies, ENSP has recognized the need to empower women in the seed business. Despite the initial challenges of including women-owned seed businesses in the program, a new strategy has been implemented. ENSP has launched an incubator specifically tailored for female-led small- and medium-scale enterprises in seed production, seedling preparation, input supply, and fertilizer production. This initiative runs parallel to the ongoing efforts to enhance the seed production of 10 domestic seed businesses. The program, which ran from March to October 2023, provided customized support to women involved in the seed value chain, taking into account their educational background, business type, and developmental stage. This proactive approach aims to create a more inclusive and diverse landscape within the seed industry, ultimately contributing to the overall growth and success of the sector.
Empowering women entrepreneurs is not only about individual success stories; it is about driving economic growth and community development. A study by the Mastercard Foundation in 2020 revealed that closing the gender gap in entrepreneurship could potentially add USD 5 trillion to the global GDP by 2025. This economic boost is particularly crucial in developing countries like Ethiopia, where women entrepreneurs play a vital role in supporting their families and uplifting communities out of poverty.
The program conducted a thorough needs assessment to design tailored support for women entrepreneurs in the seed value chain. It offered a comprehensive training module covering essential areas for business success, including business model development, market access strategies, financial literacy, and presentation skills.
To further equip the participants, technical experts visited their farms, nurseries, and shops, providing guidance on good agricultural practices. Guest speakers also delivered short lectures during the training sessions. These were complemented by coaching sessions to provide additional support to the participants with their assignments and to clarify any unclear points. Additionally, a three-day experience-sharing visit and a pitching competition with prize money were organized as highlights of the incubator.
The success of the first round of the program led to the launch of a second-round incubator program on March 5th, 2024, with an increased number of participants from five to thirteen new participants in the seed value chain. The major challenge faced in the first round was finding women-owned businesses in the seed value chain. For the second round, the team has made a significant effort to find more women through their network. As a result, women from different parts of the seed value chain were found. The training modules and approach were customized to best meet the specific needs of this new group, building on the successes and challenges from the first round.
Participants of the first incubator program shared their experiences, with one stating, “My previous approach to customer acquisition was limited, but now I have learned new and effective methods to attract and retain customers.”
Another participant mentioned, “I have gained a deeper understanding of the significance of effectively marketing a brand.”
Empowering women plays a crucial role in Ethiopia’s economic growth and community development. The ENSP is committed to continuing its support and promotion of women-led businesses in Ethiopia’s seed value chain. By empowering women entrepreneurs, ENSP is contributing not only to individual success but also to the overall economic development of Ethiopia.
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