“If you can’t change the situation, change your attitude!” – this motto has been her guiding star throughout a dynamic career in procurement and administration, spanning over decades. At Kauno Grūdai, she ensures smooth and efficient operations, enabling the entire organization to function optimally. She excels in planning and coordinating procedures, streamlining processes, and engaging her team in strategic forecasting, planning, and implementation. Her role also involves rigorous process control, staff performance assessments, and budget management, all while adhering to group policies and regulations. Before this, Jelena spent over 8 years as the Head of Procurement, where she developed and executed comprehensive procurement strategies. She led initiatives for continuous improvement and cost reduction, managed supplier relationships, and ensured the highest ethical standards in all negotiations. For startups, she offers a wealth of experience in creating efficient processes, strategic planning, team management, and procurement excellence. Her extensive background equips to mentor startups in developing robust operational strategies, improving efficiency, and driving sustainable growth.

Has over 10 years of experience in international (EU, US) and national research & study projects related to information and communication technologies, customer emotions and customer behaviour. Currently, she is working on several EU projects related to generative AI (GenAI) solutions/tools for business. Her research interests cover brand/social media influencer communication & customer engagement on social media platforms and GenAI in education and business. She has been a (neuro)marketing consultant for businesses for over 8 years. Her industry research and consulting experience includes international and national brands from various industries, such as beauty, chemical and biotechnological, food and drink, hospitality, pharmacy, public relations, and communication.

Has a BSc in Industrial Engineering, MSc in Polymer Engineering, and PhD in Materials Engineering. Main research areas: nanotechnology, green synthesis and research of metal nanoparticles, biopolymer composites, antimicrobial bio- and nanocomposites, design and research of natural functional 3D biopolymer structures. Author of one worldwide, 2 European, 3 Lithuanian patents. Participating in the 2022 Lithuanian edition of EWA, together with her team, she developed a prototype idea – a 100% biodegradable substrate for hydroponic crops. Upon noticing her potential, EIT Food invited Aistė to present her experience at the Women in Agrifood Summit 2022 in Spain.

A graduate in Biology and Economics from Vilnius State University (now Vilnius University), with 28 years of experience in the agrifood sector. For 6 years worked in the catering industry, from menu development and management to the whole restaurant operation and supervision. For 22 years – with short shelf-life food products (dairy, meat, fish): from product development to marketing. Competences: market analysis, customer needs identification and product development/adaptation to their needs; product costing and selling price setting; packaging selection, transport customisation, etc.; staff training, team building, motivational measures, setting goals and plans, monitoring their implementation; equipment selection, production process preparation, and work organisation; negotiations with private clients and large retail chains (Lithuanian and foreign); participation in exhibitions.

Brings extensive experience as an entrepreneurship lecturer, business mentor, and leader with a strong background in helping organizations start and scale, building professional networks, and providing strategic guidance.

Head of the retail chain Minimarket. With more than 10 years of experience in retail management, service delivery, and HR, she takes a holistic approach to any challenge or change. She has initiated and participated in a number of value-creating, efficiency improvement projects. Their success has been driven by the ability to dig deep and understand operations, standardise and optimise processes, and make decisions that respond to business needs. Gintarė believes in achieving the best results through a positive working climate, open communication, and continuous encouragement to improve. Improving leadership skills, implementing changes and communication, using Lean methods, setting the right indicators, developing and implementing a business strategy are topics in which she can guide startups.

Has 33 years of experience in business development, scaleup, and sales. Inventor and innovator holding 3 European patents. Innovation management expert. Expert member of the EC H2020 and Horizon Europe configuration committees: Strategic Configuration and Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises and Access to Risk Capital. Successive EC, Horizon 2020, Horizon Europe project winner and executor as well as program evaluator.

His academic credentials include a Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management from Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University, where Justas gained in-depth knowledge in facility logistics management, distribution networks, strategic sourcing, global logistics, and operations research, also I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Finance and Economics from Kaunas University of Technology. Over a decade of experience at Kauno Grūdai, he held key roles such as Business Development and Innovations Manager, Supply Chain Manager, Project manager. His responsibilities included streamlining the “Idea-to-profit” process, connecting suppliers, production sites, and customers efficiently, and managing organizational shifts to enhance supply chain processes. Earlier roles in finance management and analysis complement his expertise, providing a solid foundation in financial planning, treasury management, and strategic analysis. This comprehensive blend of education and hands-on experience equips him with the strategic insight and operational acumen to effectively mentor startups in optimizing their supply chain, business development, and financial management strategies.

As a seasoned commercial director with over a decade of diverse experience, he brings to a company a strategic and results-driven approach. Over the past 7 years, Algirdas honed his expertise in commercial strategy, market expansion, and revenue growth. Background in key account management has equipped Algirdas with strong relationship building and negotiation skills, while his 5 years in procurement within the retail sector have provided a deeper understanding of supply chain dynamics and cost optimization. Diverse background allows him to navigate business towards revenue growth and profitability with an open-minded approach.

Received a degree as a qualified medical doctor from Kaunas University of Medicine, a Master’s degree in business and economics from Kaunas University of Technology, and a Master’s degree in international management and business administration from the University of Roskilde in Denmark. He has almost 30 years of experience in pharmaceutical sales, management of internal company structures, development of corporate development strategies, personnel selection management, and communication with wholesale distribution companies and food retail chains. 20 of these years have been spent in retail and wholesale pharmaceutical companies as a senior manager responsible for sales, marketing, and corporate development. Main professional interests: innovation in the food sector and food supplements, natural medicine, medicinal/herbal plants, rational use and composition of food supplements, and healthy lifestyle. He has 16 years of experience in one of Lithuania’s largest herbal, medicinal teas, food supplements, and other pharmaceutical companies, Acorus Calamus.