The Grapes of Change project focuses on gender equality and workplace safety, with the aim of supporting women and young female workers in the wine sector—particularly those aged 18 to 34—in combating gender-based violence and workplace discrimination.

Led by SFC and promoted in collaboration with fourteen partner organizations across eight European countries, the initiative is funded under European programmes for gender equality and social innovation. The project seeks not only to prevent episodes of violence and discrimination but also to promote inclusive workplace cultures within the growing European wine industry.

Moreover, the project will equip wineries, agricultural confederations, and support organizations with innovative monitoring and training tools to facilitate the implementation of evidence-based policies and create safer, more equitable work environments.
It aims to reduce the gender gap in the wine sector and inspire young women to pursue careers in the industry under conditions of safety and respect.

By involving partners with expertise in academic research, women’s advocacy, and digital innovation, the initiative aspires to transform the organizational cultures of the European wine sector.

Specific Objectives: To achieve its overarching goal, the project has defined the following specific objectives:

• Explore the connection between gender-based violence, working conditions, and corporate culture in the wine sector, within the context of gender equality.
• Provide innovative digital tools, including serious games and gamified platforms, to raise awareness and educate on gender equality topics.
• Deliver prevention and management skills related to gender-based violence for organizations in the wine sector.
• Strengthen the capacities of company managers and sector trainers to apply new tools and policies effectively.

Expected Outcomes: Key expected outcomes include:

A mapping of sectoral needs, The establishment of a Gender-Based Violence Observatory for monitoring purposes, The development of digital training materials, The implementation of capacity-building programmes for partner organizations

The project aims to promote equal opportunities for women in the wine sector—especially those in vulnerable situations—and contribute to the creation of a replicable model for other European industries. It also aligns with the European Union’s priorities on inclusion, diversity, and social sustainability.

Supported by thirty stakeholders from across the European wine ecosystem and with a duration of 36 months, the project lays the groundwork for lasting change that extends beyond the geographical and temporal boundaries of the initiative.