Galician Entrepreneur Turns Childhood Hobby Into Jewelry Business

As a child, Nerea Figueiras spent her time collecting wildflowers, placing them in her hair or the buttonholes of her clothes. That early interest in nature eventually led her to study biology, but it also sparked a creative career path that transformed a pastime into a commercial venture.

Figueiras began crafting jewelry using preserved flowers, initially sharing the pieces only with family members and friends. What started as a casual hobby soon gained momentum, prompting her to formalize the operation. In 2020, she launched her company, Fento do Vento.

Building a Business from Scratch

The startup required modest financial investment. Figueiras launched the business with approximately 2,500 euros of initial capital. She supplemented her personal savings with grants provided by the Xunta de Galicia and the A Coruña Provincial Council.

The company did not pursue external investment rounds or venture capital funding, opting instead to grow through organic sales and regional support. Figueiras says the transition from hobbyist to business owner happened gradually as demand for her floral designs increased.

Why it matters

The story of Fento do Vento highlights how small, localized businesses can emerge from niche artisanal skills with minimal capital. For entrepreneurs, particularly in regions prioritizing economic development through small business grants, this serves as a case study in leveraging regional government support to bypass traditional venture funding.