Cultivating Entrepreneurs: Empowering Youths for Agri-Business Innovation Skill Development programme co-funded by ECFFPA, in collaboration with EDII, Gujarat.

Agribusiness is a beacon of opportunity in a rapidly evolving world, blending tradition with innovation. Recognizing young minds’ immense potential in shaping sustainable agriculture’s future, Fairtrade NAPP, in partnership with ECFFPA and the European Union, hosted the Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Program at the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) in Ahmedabad.  This dynamic three-day event, held in September, brought together 18 motivated youths. It explored various topics, including digital marketing, financial management, and technology’s transformative role in agriculture. It equipped them with the skills, tools, and vision to drive transformative change in the agribusiness landscape.

One of the program’s highlights was an industry visit to Rise Hydroponics in Ahmedabad. Here, participants witnessed the remarkable potential of hydroponic farming, a soil-less cultivation method that maximizes resource efficiency. They learned about techniques like the nutrient film technique (NFT) and deep-water culture (DWC), gaining insights into how these innovations address environmental concerns while ensuring higher yields. The experience served as a powerful inspiration for participants to envision sustainable solutions for the future of food production.

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Throughout the program, the energy and enthusiasm of the participants were palpable. Workshops and group activities encouraged collaboration and peer learning, culminating in the creation of personalized Business Model Canvases. These models, reviewed by EDII professors, provided participants with constructive feedback to refine their entrepreneurial ideas. This hands-on approach ensured that participants didn’t just learn—they applied their knowledge, setting a solid foundation for their future ventures.

The program achieved more than just skill-building; it fostered a mindset of innovation, resilience, and sustainability. Participants left with enhanced confidence in business planning, market analysis, and financial management. They gained a deep understanding of agribusiness trends, digital marketing strategies, and sustainable practices, equipping them to navigate the complexities of modern agriculture. Most importantly, the connections forged during the program created a supportive network of peers and mentors, essential for long-term success in entrepreneurship.

The participants’ feedback reflected the program’s transformative impact. One participant shared, “The sessions on digital marketing opened my eyes to new possibilities for promoting my business,” while another remarked, “Working on the Business Model Canvas was incredibly helpful; I now feel more prepared to start my business.” These testimonials underscore the program’s success in empowering youths to turn their ideas into actionable plans.

Fairtrade NAPP’s commitment to fostering innovation in agriculture extends beyond training sessions. By supporting initiatives like this program, the organization underscores its mission to promote sustainability, inclusivity, and empowerment in global supply chains. The Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Program was an event and a catalyst for change, inspiring a new generation of agribusiness leaders dedicated to building a resilient and equitable future.