I am Büşra Yılmaz from Türkiye. My educational background is in pharmacy, and now I am a candidate for a master’s degree in biotechnology. It is during the first years of my bachelor’s degree that I became drawn to entrepreneurs and their innovative methods.

Journey into the Sustainable Energy/Climate Sector

One day while browsing the internet, I came across a startling report. It stated that the Konya Basin, one of Türkiye’s most significant agricultural hubs, would suffer complete drought by the end of 2050. After reading this, I felt that I had to take action. Together with three other women, I co-founded a company that puts sustainability and sustainable energy at its core. Our entire operation is 100% renewable energy-powered.

Contribution to the Clean Energy Transition

So, what are we doing about climate change? Our focus is to replace harmful chemical fertilizers with products from microorganisms that are secondary metabolites, thus promoting sustainable crop growth and healing degraded soils. Our innovative approach uses sustainable processes, such as reusing microorganisms and recycling waste. All these are essential for a sustainable world. 

Challenges and Barriers as a Woman

As women entrepreneurs, we face challenges in accessing finance in the sustainable energy and climate solution sector. One such challenge is that our proposed solutions in the sector are underestimated. While this attitude is disappointing, it only provokes us even more to act. It increases the happiness we feel when we succeed. We study and work harder. We improve our product processes and align our solutions with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Vision for Equal Access to Finance

Moving forward, my vision is awareness raising for women entrepreneurs, including on access to financial services. Practical on-site training can be provided by creating a separate fund dedicated to women entrepreneurs in emerging markets and developing economies. These trainings should include meetings with various regulatory bodies, such as the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (TÜBİTAK) in our case. Due to its proximity to Asia, Africa, and European countries, Türkiye could be a hub for such initiatives. 

Role of Women in Climate and Energy Tech

There are very few women scientists in our environment. The most inspirational scientist for me is Marie Curie. Her endless passion for science is a continuous inspiration. 

When they put their mind into it, women can overcome all difficulties whenever they want.  Women will get involved in scientific fields as employees to keep the factories running, as interns in the field, as students trying to learn the business from the ground up, as managers, and as new entrepreneurs who have mastered the entire operation.

Advice to Aspiring Women Entrepreneurs

My advice to women who want to start their own business is never, never, and never give up! Put on your heels, stand tall and trust yourself!

This interview is part of the Gender and Energy Compact series Women in the Spotlight.
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