WOMEN THAT are current and emerging leaders in the horticulture industry can now apply for a leadership development scholarship opportunity valued at up to $5,470.

Funded by the Hort Frontiers Leadership Fund (a strategic partnership initiative by Hort Innovation) and Women & Leadership Australia (WLA), the scholarship grants cover up to 60 per cent of the cost of the programs.

The funding is specifically designated for women working in all horticulture sectors who are emerging leaders or have mid-level management and leadership experience.

Hort Innovation chief executive John Lloyd said the 2017 Gender Equality Insights report showed that men in agriculture, forestry and fishery industries are paid 18.9 per cent more than women.

“Women in the industry have given us the feedback that they would like additional tools to empower them in what is a male-dominated industry,” he said.

“On top of this, an ageing workforce, limited access to formal leadership training, declining interest in studying horticulture and a lack of support around post-graduate research means that it is very hard for women to progress and develop in this field.

“This scholarship program will address some of the issues women face, and give them the tools needed to support long and profitable careers in horticulture.”

Scholarship applicants can choose from two courses: Executive Ready and the Accelerated Leadership Performance Program.

The blended courses are delivered on a part-time basis over four or seven months respectively.

Participants will learn skills such as heightened presence and influence, managing team dynamics, driving performance and leading innovation and change.

The funding is available to individuals and groups of employees who own or work within levy-paying businesses.

Ten women are currently participating in the two courses after the launch of the program earlier this year.

WLA Head of School Kelly Rothwell said it is fantastic to see the momentum quickly generated by the initiative.

“I take great pride in the fact that 10 women from the horticulture sector are already participating in these leadership development courses,” she said.

“WLA is thrilled to be working with Hort Innovation and playing a key role in transforming the lives of many women right throughout the industry.”

For more information and to apply, go to the WLA website. Expressions of interest close on Friday, October 27 at 5pm AEDT.

To learn more about our exciting Hort Frontiers funds visit here.