As 2024 comes to a close, the Erasmus+ Femme Forward project (Fast-tracking women into new tech careers and supporting successful female-led start-ups) has reached its conclusion. Since January 2023, this initiative has involved TOP-IX in facing the gender gap in the digital field, and empowering their digital and entrepreneurial skills.
An international consortium made of 15 partners has designed and implemented two innovative training programs that have helped women across Europe to start careers in technology or transform their innovative ideas into successful startups.
Femme Forward combined courses, coaching sessions, and networking opportunities to foster greater women’s inclusion in the tech sector. The program’s content blended hands-on training, individual support, and connections with industry experts and role models, fostering an inspiring and enriching environment.
As a Femme Forward partner, TOP-IX focused on developing the Italian Start-up Founders Track. This program was designed to equip participants with practical skills in innovation, business, and technology within the local and italian startup ecosystem. Between November 2023 and January 2024, we delivered courses and mentoring sessions with startup professionals. We had the pleasure of meeting women from different backgrounds, building a flexible and accessible program for all. We supported their projects, encouraging them to develop their ideas in teams and present final pitches in front of experts and trainers, receiving valuable feedback to refine their entrepreneurial visions.
One of the most significant outcomes of the program was that some participants have already launched or refined their startups, proving that access to the right training and support can make a real difference. This is the case of Lizard Collection, which offers leased furniture made following a circular model designed for reuse, refurbishment and recycling. Another example is that of Geen, which aims to protect sexual and reproductive wellness and health, starting with data analysis. A further case is the “Spark kids in revolution” project, which has developed a unique Pivot, both as a product and as a business model, along the training program.
Femme Forward highlighted that women’s empowerment is not only a matter of equality, but also a key lever for innovation and economic growth.
Through projects like Femme Forward, TOP-IX affirms its commitment to promoting inclusion, diversity, and technological innovation. We extend our gratitude to all participants, partners, trainers, and experts who contributed to the success of Femme Forward. The path toward a more equitable digital future is set, and we are proud to have been part of this journey.
Article by Sara Iannone
