Poland has celebrated its leading innovative women farmers, with the winners of the fifth national “Rolniczki motorem innowacji w gospodarstwach rolnych w Polsce” (Women farmers are the engine of innovation in farms in Poland) competition announced. Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Stefan Krajewski, praised the laureates for their “inventiveness, entrepreneurship, and courage in introducing new solutions,” highlighting their role in actively shaping the future of Polish villages.
Recognising Pioneering Rural Entrepreneurship
The competition, organised by the Krajowa Rada Izb Rolniczych (KRIR) and its Council for Women and Families from Rural Areas, aims to promote female entrepreneurship, acknowledge achievements, and spread innovative practices in agriculture. This year’s edition held particular significance, as it coincided with the year designated by the United Nations as the International Year of Rural Women Farmers. According to wnp.pl, Minister Krajewski views these women as an inspiration for others seeking to develop their farms and transform rural Poland.
The top honours were shared ex aequo by Ilona Michalak from Wielkopolskie Voivodeship, who manages a 160-hectare dairy farm with over 200 cattle and produces cheeses, and Justyna Górniak from Dolnośląskie Voivodeship. Ms Górniak runs a multi-generational family farm specialising in rapeseed and wheat, and is also the creator of the “Wężostrzały” project, which utilises dried garlic shoots. Third place went to Elżbieta Warcholak from Podkarpackie Voivodeship, recognised for her production of varietal honeys and bee products. Urszula Gacek and Krystyna Gredza also received distinctions. The national winners will go on to represent Poland at a European competition organised by COPA-COGECA in Brussels in 2028.
Exploring the Role of Women in Rural Development
Further underscoring the growing focus on women’s contributions, the “Siła Kobiecych Opowieści: Inspiracje i Działania” (Strength of Women’s Stories: Inspirations and Actions) conference is set to take place on 23 October 2026. Hosted by NIKiDW at the Czartoryski Palace in Puławy, the second edition of the conference will run from 10:00 to 15:00 and delve into the multifaceted roles of women, particularly women farmers, in Polish society.
The conference agenda, as detailed by NIKiDW, includes panels exploring the social and psychological aspects influencing rural women, their increasing activity as entrepreneurs, and the role of innovation in agriculture. Speakers will also discuss the economic activities of Rural Women’s Associations (KGW) and the professional development paths of women in public institutions. Confirmed participants include psychologists, academics from the Polish Academy of Sciences, journalists, entrepreneurs, and public officials such as Anna Augustyniak, Vice President of Lublin. Topics range from the resilience of rural women as a pillar for farms and local communities to innovations in agriculture and women’s roles in local government and supporting institutions.
FAQ
What is the “Rolniczki motorem innowacji w gospodarstwach rolnych” competition?
It is a national competition in Poland that promotes the entrepreneurship of women in rural areas, recognises their achievements, and disseminates innovative solutions used in farms. The latest was its fifth edition.
Who were the top winners of the latest edition of the competition?
Ilona Michalak and Justyna Górniak shared first place, while Elżbieta Warcholak secured third place. Two distinctions were also awarded.
What is the focus of the “Siła Kobiecych Opowieści” conference?
The conference focuses on analysing the role of women, especially women farmers, from social, psychological, and economic perspectives, including their entrepreneurial activities, innovation, and involvement in public institutions.
Where and when will the “Siła Kobiecych Opowieści” conference take place?
The conference is scheduled for 23 October 2026, from 10:00 to 15:00, at the Czartoryski Palace in Puławy, Poland.
