Supporting female entrepreneurship in rural areas: the Soroptimist project

Creating and managing a business in a rural area is often a challenge, even more so for women. Many obstacles can hinder their ambition: geographical and social isolation, unequal domestic burden, and low recognition of their work.

To address these challenges, the Soroptimists have launched a project to promote women entrepreneurs in rural areas, regardless of their field of activity.

The Soroptimists of Annecy organized the 3rd edition of this trophy, a key event to highlight women’s initiatives in scattered rural communities. For seven months, six members of the club prepared this event.

• 10 applications were received and evaluated according to specific criteria,
• 6 finalist companies were visited,
• 4 prizes were awarded on the International Day of Rural Women, on October 15, 2024, in front of 80 people.

Each candidate had five minutes to present her activity, sharing her background and ambition.

• €2,000, awarded by Ms. KUDIN, Departmental Delegate for Women’s Rights.
• €1,000, presented by Ms. DROUX, patron of the MEDEF Women’s Network.
• Two prizes of €500, financed by the Soroptimist Club of Annecy.
• An artistic trophy, made by a participant in the “Talents de Femmes” show and presented by Ms. OPPILLIART, Sub-Prefect of Thonon-les-Bains.

The success of this event is based on careful preparation:

• Creation and distribution of application files.
• Active search for participants and communication via social networks.
• Analysis and ranking of applications.
• Visits to finalist companies.
• Logistical organization of the ceremony (room, trophy, invitations, PowerPoint presentation).

This ceremony was a strong moment of emotion, sharing and discoveries. The testimonies of the candidates deeply touched the participants, and their enthusiasm encouraged the club to continue this initiative in the years to come.

The participants particularly appreciated this opportunity to highlight their work and gain visibility, while strengthening their motivation and self-confidence.

This project confirms that encouraging female entrepreneurship in rural areas is essential to boost these territories and promote initiatives rich in potential.