From Home Garden to “Smile in a Jar”: Entrepreneur Grows Her Business Through FemAgro

Alla Hutman, a participant in the first cohort of the Women’s Opportunity Fund’s FemAgro program, has transformed a small family farm in Ukraine’s Poltava region into a growing food-processing business. What began as cultivating vegetables and berries has evolved into “Smile in a Jar,” a brand producing artisanal pickled vegetables and preserves sold through local retailers, regional supermarket chains, and direct-to-consumer via social media.

Despite significant setbacks, including a devastating house fire that forced her family to start from scratch, Alla continued investing in agriculture, expanding her farm, and pursuing professional training in horticulture and viticulture. A FemAgro grant helped her upgrade the heating system in her greenhouse, protecting her tulip harvest and supporting the growth of her business.

Today, Alla is planning the next stage of expansion, including a dedicated processing facility and a greater focus on sustainable farming practices. She credits the FemAgro program not only for financial support, but also for the mentorship, knowledge, and community that have helped her business thrive.