Innovation in the agricultural activity of rural women is awarded

Innovation in agricultural activity not only transforms production models, but also plays a crucial role in gender equality, especially in rural areas. Likewise, the growing incorporation of women into more important positions in rural areas provides a new vision that promotes the incorporation of innovations and technologies. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPA) has announced the list of winners of the 15th edition of the Excellence Awards for Innovation for Rural Women , who will be awarded the prize on October 15.

In this 2024 edition, three prizes have been awarded for each of the four categories called (innovation in agricultural activity, in fishing and aquaculture, in the economic diversification of the rural environment and in communication), endowed with 18,000, 12,000 and 7,500 euros.

Awards for innovation in agricultural activity

Specifically, in the category of Innovation in agricultural activity , the winning projects for 2024 highlight how innovation can open up new economic opportunities, give visibility to female talent and improve the sustainability of rural environments.

The first prize went to OmañaCea TC, an extensive livestock farm that not only focuses on producing quality meat, but has also created an online platform to sell its products and support other local producers . This business model not only modernizes the sector, but also gives rural women tools to access new markets.

The second prize recognised the work of Marta Martín Abad with her project Entrecabritos, which combines traditional goat breeding with active tourism. Her innovative approach diversifies the local economy and offers new avenues of development for women in rural areas.

Third prize in this category went to Quesería Soberón, led by two young sisters who have revived the production of a local cheese that had not been made for 20 years. This project highlights how innovation and entrepreneurship can revitalise traditions and, at the same time, open doors for women in sectors historically dominated by men.

Through initiatives like these, it is clear that innovation not only improves productivity and sustainability in agricultural activity, but also promotes gender equality, allowing rural women to become protagonists of change in their communities.