Green weekendthe flagship event of environmental entrepreneurship organized by Enviroo, reaffirms its leadership reference platform for lasting entrepreneurship. On November 23 and 24, more than 50 participants gathered at the AJE Madrid headquarters to experience a weekend full of inspiration, education and innovative projects.
Among the 17 sustainable entrepreneurship projects that participated in this edition, the Jury chose three finalists for each of the two categories:
In the category ‘Ideas in development‘, the award went to Symialed by Nazareth Batista, with his proposal for a animal rescue center victims of illegal trafficking. Symia not only offers a second chance to these animals, but also offers an immersive experience education and awareness regarding the conservation and respect for biodiversity.
In the category ‘Projects in progress‘,the award went to Kai clothesled by Israel Ferrer,who converts 90% of nylon kitesurfing kites in sustainable fashion products. This innovative project promotes circular economyoffering a creative and profitable solution for the reuse of this waste.
Commitment to sustainability and positive impact
In addition to providing these recognitions, Greenweekend 2024 provided participants with a unique space to access tools, mentorship and training designed to turn their proposals into sustainable, profitable businesses. “This year we have seen an extraordinary level of commitment and innovation. Entrepreneurs participating in Greenweekend are building a future where sustainability is not only possible, but profitable”, underlines Agustín valentín-Gamazo, director of Enviroo.
In addition to the two winners, the other finalists also stood out for the quality of their proposals:
- Eco Human Wise: Geographic Information Systems with Artificial Intelligence for Sustainability, by Rafael Rodríguez.
- Uze Biodiseño: Design of educational spaces for children with sustainable criteria and inspired by nature, curated by Viviana Segura.
- Afroyeye: a female empowerment project for Benin women with products marketed in Spain, by Rosa Briales.
- Kafka Solutions: an innovative solution to generate income with waste treatment through autonomous modules, by Fernando Bandrés and helen Olaya.
A story of success and continuity
Greenweekend, which has organized 35 editions as its creation in 2013, has helped promote more than 130 environmental projects across Spain. This program, which combines training, networking and mentoring, consolidates itself as an essential pillar in the sustainable entrepreneurship ecosystem. “Sustainable entrepreneurs increasingly seek to generate a positive impact on the habitat and society, but also to build business models that allow them to earn a living.Greenweekend continues to prove that sustainability can be profitable”, adds Valentín-Gamazo.
Source: Green Weekend
How can aspiring entrepreneurs effectively secure funding for their lasting buisness initiatives?
Interview Between the Time.news Editor and Environmental Entrepreneurship Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, and thank you for joining us today! We’re excited to discuss the Green Weekend event, which recently highlighted the importance of environmental entrepreneurship. As an expert in this field, could you start by sharing what makes events like Green Weekend so vital in today’s economic landscape?
Expert (E): Thank you for having me! Events like Green Weekend are crucial because they bring together innovators, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders who are dedicated to sustainability. In the face of climate change and dwindling natural resources,it’s essential to foster dialogue and collaboration among like-minded individuals. These gatherings not only inspire but also provide participants with the tools and networks necessary to launch and sustain eco-friendly ventures.
TNE: Absolutely. I understand that this year, over 50 participants attended the event at the AJE Madrid headquarters. What can you tell us about the diversity of participants and the kind of initiatives they presented?
E: The diversity at Green Weekend is truly inspiring! We had entrepreneurs from various sectors, including renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and eco-tourism. Each participant brought unique perspectives and initiatives, from innovative technologies that reduce waste to social enterprises focused on community engagement. This variety not only enriches discussions but also encourages cross-pollination of ideas—leading to potential collaborations that can drive important positive environmental impact.
TNE: That sounds amazing.What role do you think platforms like Enviroo play in shaping the landscape of environmental entrepreneurship?
E: Platforms like enviroo are indispensable. They act as catalysts for change, connecting entrepreneurs with resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities. by providing a space for sharing knowledge and best practices, Enviroo empowers entrepreneurs to navigate the complex challenges of sustainable business. Additionally, they help elevate the visibility of green initiatives, encouraging more stakeholders to invest in environmentally responsible practices.
TNE: Speaking of investment, how crucial is financial support in the realm of environmental entrepreneurship, especially for startups?
E: Financial support is critical. While the desire to create positive environmental impact is a strong motivator, many green startups face significant financial barriers. Access to capital is essential for research and advancement, marketing, and scaling operations.Though, investors are increasingly recognizing the value of sustainable businesses. The growing consumer demand for ethical products and services helps attract investment,but more needs to be done to bridge the funding gap for early-stage green startups.
TNE: Indeed, it seems that consumer awareness and support play a big role in this shift. How do you see consumer behavior evolving when it comes to sustainability?
E: We’re definitely witnessing a shift toward more conscious consumerism. people are becoming more informed about the environmental impact of their purchases and are actively seeking out brands that prioritize sustainability. This change in behavior is encouraging companies to adopt greener practices and innovate in their offerings. as consumers continue to demand transparency and corporate obligation,businesses will need to adapt or risk being left behind.
TNE: As we wrap up, could you share any insights or suggestions for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to enter the field of environmental entrepreneurship?
E: Absolutely! My biggest piece of advice is to stay curious and open-minded. The field is constantly evolving, so continually educate yourself about emerging trends and technologies. Building a strong network is also imperative—attend events, engage with mentors, and connect with fellow entrepreneurs. And most importantly, stay true to your mission. The journey can be challenging, but by remaining passionate about your purpose, you can make a meaningful impact.
TNE: Thank you so much for your insights! It’s been a pleasure discussing the significance of events like Green Weekend and the future of environmental entrepreneurship with you.
E: Thank you for having me! Let’s continue the conversation about how we can collectively champion sustainable practices and build a better future.