Transforming the Agri-Food System: 1 Year of Personal Growth

In May 2024, we conducted a survey to evaluate the impact created by the Rootical bootcamp on our 2023 cohort. Of the 40 bootcamp participants, 31 took part in the survey. Let's delve into the findings. 

Introduction 

The bootcamp is the first stage of the Rootical business building process. 40 selected potential founders embarked on a journey with Rootical, starting with an immersive 10-days Food System Leadership bootcamp in Entebbe. The selected participants received training in systemic venture building, human-centred design, agroecology and regenerative agriculture, purpose-driven entrepreneurship, expertise and mentorship from experts on how to transform the Ugandan food system. 

Over the past year, the bootcamp participants have experienced a profound transformation in their careers and contributions to the agri-food system. The bootcamp did not only equip the entrepreneurs with valuable skills but also catalyzed significant personal growth.

Career Shifts and New Opportunities

The impact of the bootcamp is evident in the career advancements of its participants. A remarkable 45% have either transitioned into new roles within the agri-food industry or embarked on careers in this field for the first time. Specifically, 16% of respondents are new entrants to the agri-food sector, while 29% have advanced into new positions within the industry. This substantial shift highlights the bootcamp's effectiveness in providing pathways for deeper engagement with the agri-food sector. 

Hannes; Rootical Director with some of the 2023 Rootical Food System Leadership bootcamp participants during the egg challenge.

Commitment to Innovative Practices

Participants have also demonstrated a strong commitment to transformative practices. An impressive 83% have implemented Agroecology and Regenerative Agriculture practices in their organizations at least once. This widespread adoption indicates the bootcamp’s role in fostering the transition towards a fair, just and equitable food system. 

Building a Strong Community

The sense of community cultivated by the bootcamp remains robust. A striking 97% of participants continue to maintain connections with fellow attendees and trainers. This enduring network has been instrumental in facilitating collaborations and business opportunities. Notably, 71% have engaged in collaborative efforts on various initiatives.

To mention two examples: we have seen bootcamp participants collaborate to promote their products at a food fair in Stockholm; others have teamed up to fulfil a consultancy opportunity together on behalf of an international organisation targeting farmers.

The Rootical Food System Leadership post bootcamp survey highlights strong participant satisfaction, with a Net Promotor Score of 52%. This is considered very high (0-30% is good, 30-70% is great, 70-100% is excellent); others say that above 50% is amazing.

Rootical 2023 bootcamp participants at Jero Farm Uganda.

This is reflecting Rootical’s transformative impact. The feedback emphasises how the bootcamp and venture building journey equipped entrepreneurs with essential tools necessary for building a Commercially viable, Scalable and Impactful agri-food business, and with innovative strategies and hands-on experience to lead the transformation of our food system. With a growing network of like-minded changemakers, participants are already reshaping their communities and the agri-food system. 

If this excites you, reach out or make sure to join our next cohort!