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Women in wine: tools and opportunities for an inclusive future

Women in wine: tools and opportunities for an inclusive future
wine2wine
November 29 2024

 

The world of wine is in flux, with an increasing number of women establishing themselves in key roles across the industry. However, women still face significant obstacles, such as wage inequality and a limited presence in decision-making roles.

 

In Italy, the female employment rate is among the lowest in Europe, with many women lacking full economic independence. This makes it crucial to support female participation in the wine sector to foster inclusion and growth.

 

During a session at wine2wine Business Forum 2023, journalist Laura Donadoni, Matilde Poggi, President of the Italian Federation of Independent Winemakers (FIVI), Luisa Ortu, an expert in innovation and internationalization, discussed practical solutions to overcome such barriers.

 

 

The role of crowdfunding

 

Among the proposals, crowdfunding emerged as a tool for empowerment, offering professionals in the sector access to capital and creating networks of active investors. An example of success comes from France, where Château Edmus has involved members of the wine club of the same name in the management of the winery, offering returns in the form of exclusive selections of its wines.

 

In Italy, similar models could facilitate the entry of women into the wine sector. This tool helps not only to overcome financial difficulties, but also to create a base of supporters involved in the growth of the business, representing an alternative to traditional financing.

 

 

Mentorship and structured support

 

In addition to crowdfunding, mentorship is also fundamental. Initiatives such as the Enterprise Europe Network connect women entrepreneurs to resources and opportunities for growth. However, specific support for farms led by women, which account for 28% of the total, remains insufficient.

 

 

Government Programs and Incentives

 

Support from entities such as Invitalia, through subsidized finance programs, could increase the presence of women in the sector. Expanding access to these resources is a lever to overcome financial barriers and promote female entrepreneurship.

 

 

Beyond equity

 

Women's inclusion in the world of wine is essential not only to ensure equity, but also to promote innovation in the sector. The wine industry can enhance the contribution of women, transforming these challenges into opportunities for shared growth. Alternative funding models, mentorship and inclusive policies are key tools for a more balanced and prosperous future.

 

 

Luisa Ortu

Luisa Ortu, an expert in innovation and internationalization, is co-owner of Chateau Edmus in Saint-Emilion, a wine project shared with 30 other Wine Angels. An active Business Angel, she is part of the Business Angel Network of Florence and the Italian Open Seed fund, supporting innovative startups and SMEs. She has been working for over 15 years in the EU Enterprise Europe Network, helping companies to obtain funding and develop their business in Italy and abroad.

 

Matilde Poggi

Matilde Poggi, a winemaker from Cavaion Veronese in the Bardolino DOC region, started her business in 1984. She was President of FIVI from 2013 to 2022 and since 2022 has led CEVI, the European Confederation of Independent Winegrowers, representing winemakers at the European Commission. Her experience makes her a key figure in promoting the role of independent winemakers in Italy and Europe.

 

Laura Donadoni

Laura Donadoni, journalist, writer and wine educator, lives in California, where she founded La Com Wine Agency and the blog The Italian Wine Girl. A member of the International Circle of Wine Writers, she is the author of four books and successful podcasts such as Lady Vino. Finalist of the Bancarella 2022 award with Custodi del Vino, she was a Tedx Speaker and included among the 40 under 40 most influential in Italian wine by La Repubblica.

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