The theme of the meeting - ‘Women as Leaders of Change’ - showed the extraordinary potential of women in creating entrepreneurship and their involvement in breaking down barriers. The event was attended by representatives from Hrubieszów, Jarosław, Jasło, Nisko, Opoczno, Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, Rydułtowy, Stalowa Wola, Tarnów, Wałbrzych, experts from the Norwegian Association of Local and Regional Authorities, and female entrepreneurs from Opoczno.

The speeches on the first day showcased a variety of perspectives on women's entrepreneurship. Dr Jarosław Górski, APC sector advisor, outlined the global situation of women in business, including their growing role in Poland. Pia Varstad von Hall shared Norwegian experience in promoting women in male-dominated industries, showing how effective support can break down stereotypes and increase the role of women in, for example, the fire service or maritime transport.

Maja Kruuse presented the GENGREEN project, an initiative supporting entrepreneurial women in the green economy sector, highlighting its importance in building innovative business models.

A unique highlight was a discussion with female entrepreneurs from Opoczno, who not only presented their successes, but also talked about the difficulties they face on a daily basis. These were stories full of courage, determination and creative solutions, extremely inspiring for all participants of the meeting.

The second day brought instructive examples of support for women from Rydułtowy and Jasło. Both the ‘Women for Women’ project from Rydułtowy and the ‘Jasło Female Leader’ project involved numerous educational, integration and development activities for women. They are excellent examples of how local governments can support local female leaders, creating space to develop and strengthen their role in the local community.

The highlight of the programme was a study visit to Opoczno. Participants visited the Regional Museum, where Director, Adam Grabowski, presented the history of the ceramics industry and the significant contribution of women to its development. Next, a group of participants of the Entrepreneurial City Experience Exchange Network visited the Optex S.A. Textile Factory, a symbol of sustainability and adaptation to changing market realities. The visit to the Cersanit S.A. Ceramics Factory was an opportunity to learn about modern industrial solutions and equal working standards.

The meeting in Opoczno showed that women are not only leaders of change, but also the foundation of innovative enterprises. Thanks to such events, awareness of women's potential and the need to support them in their professional and personal development is growing. Conclusions from the meeting will inspire further activities within Empirie.