EcoWomanist Institute Southeast Opens Applications for BRAID: Groundbreaking Leadership Incubator for Black Women in Agriculture and Innovation

Applications Accepted Through July 15, 2025

Atlanta, GA —The EcoWomanist Institute Southeast (EWISE) is excited to announce the launch of BRAID: Black Restorative Agriculture Incubation & Development, a visionary incubator for emerging Black womanist farmers and women of color innovators. Based in Atlanta and rooted in the U.S. South, the program is now accepting applications through July 15, 2025.

BRAID is an 18–24 month leadership development experience designed to nurture a vibrant and resilient community of Black women and women of color working to shape the future of agriculture, land stewardship, and environmental justice. Through immersive workshops, panel discussions, and hands-on learning, cohort members will explore intersections of sustainable farming, emerging technologies, business development, and cultural healing.

The initiative is a response to generations of systemic barriers that have challenged Black farmers, and it stands as a commitment to restoring access, equity, and opportunity in agriculture. “This isn’t just a program—it’s a space to plant something new and harvest justice,” says Valerie Hill Rawls, founder of EWISE. “BRAID is cultivating a generation of women who are reclaiming their connection to the land while building power, knowledge, and community.”

Who Should Apply?

BRAID is seeking passionate and purpose-driven women who are ready to make a long-term impact in the agricultural space. Ideal applicants will:

• Identify as a woman of color

• Be at least 21 years old

• Hold U.S. citizenship or legal eligibility to work in the U.S.

• Have a minimum of one year of experience in farming or a related agricultural field

• Be committed to an 18–24-month journey of leadership development and collective growth

• Bring an open mind, willingness to collaborate, and eagerness to exchange knowledge and skills

Applicants should be enthusiastic about cultivating careers in agriculture, land-based healing, and eco-entrepreneurship, and ready to participate in a collaborative environment grounded in womanist values and community engagement.

How to Apply

Applications are open now through July 15, 2025. To learn more about the BRAID incubator and to submit an application, visit: www.ewise.org/braid/applyforbraid

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About the EcoWomanist Institute Southeast (EWISE)

EWISE builds pathways for women and girls of color to reconnect with the earth and see themselves through the lens of environmental justice, eco-spirituality, and ethics. The organization centers healing, nature-based leadership, and racial equity in its programs, offering tools for wellness, advocacy, and community transformation. EWISE is grounded in the belief that when we see the earth as sacred, we come to see ourselves—and one another—as sacred, too.