Completed project · Science Division

AMPLE Skopje —
EIT Food Programme

Empowering women from vulnerable communities in Skopje through agrifood entrepreneurship, business skills training, mentorship, and access to economic networks — co-funded by the European Union and the Citi Foundation through EIT Food.

EU Co-funded Women in Food Agrifood Social Impact
WB
Western Balkans regional reach
3
Partner organisations involved
EU
European Union & Citi Foundation funded
2025
Programme year
Vita Nova team — AMPLE Skopje programme

About the programme

The AMPLE Skopje initiative is part of EIT Food's Europe-wide AMPLE programme, which was originally funded by a $500,000 grant from the Citi Foundation — awarded to EIT Food from over 1,000 submissions across 80 countries.

The Skopje chapter was implemented by Vita Nova Consulting, in close collaboration with the Municipality of Kisela Voda and NGO Nutri Balans. Together, we brought the programme's mission to life locally: empowering women from low-income, unemployed, and minority communities to build sustainable livelihoods in the agrofood sector.

What we delivered

  • A structured training programme covering business skills, financial literacy, and sustainability practices in agrifood
  • Hands-on workshops with mentors from industry, academia, and the NGO sector
  • Creation of inclusive local networks connecting participants with potential employers, buyers, and collaborators
  • Support for women-led venture formation and early-stage business development
  • EU and Citi Foundation compliance reporting, monitoring, and impact evaluation

Impact & recognition

The AMPLE Skopje programme was recognised by EIT Food as a standout example of how women-led innovation can reshape local food systems. Our work was featured on the EIT Food website, promoted by the Forum of Adriatic and Ionian Cities, and covered by local press across North Macedonia.

The programme contributed directly to job creation and economic growth in the urban and rural food sector, enhanced food security through women-led sustainable solutions, and built stronger community resilience by integrating women into local business networks.

Part of a larger initiative

AMPLE Skopje forms the first pillar of Vita Nova Consulting's partnership with EIT Food — complemented by the EIT Food Challenge Labs Macedonia 2025, which brought 100+ innovators together for a national competition and showcase event in October 2025.

Economic empowerment

Supporting women entrepreneurs to build sustainable income streams and enter formal employment in the agrofood sector.

Food system resilience

Strengthening local food supply chains and sustainable practices through women-led agrifood ventures.

Community networks

Integrating participants into business networks, mentoring circles, and cross-sector collaborations that outlast the programme.

EU-level recognition

Featured by EIT Food as a model programme for agrifood social inclusion, amplified across EU networks and regional partners.

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