Filter results
Filters result
All news
SMART ERA open call to encourage innovation in rural regions – apply by 4 November 2025
The SMART ERA project has opened its first call inviting up to 11 innovators to tackle rural innovation challenges across the project’s six pilot regions. Successful applicants will receive EUR 60 000 and a tailored nine-month mentorship aimed at piloting solutions adapted to local rural realities. The deadline for submissions is 4 November 2025.
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
Sustainable Island Mobility Plan (SIMP) – a practical guide for rural and island communities
The Sustainable Island Mobility Plan Guide (SIMP), developed by CIVINET Greece-Cyprus with the University of the Aegean and co-funded by the CIVITAS Initiative, offers a hands-on framework for designing affordable, people-centred mobility in small and medium-sized territories. Its approach also translates to rural areas facing sparse public transport, long distances to services, seasonality, and the need to safeguard natural and cultural heritage while improving access.
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
Rural proofing: Policy Lab highlights report available online
Rural proofing is not a one-off check, but an ongoing process to ensure rural needs and opportunities are reflected throughout, from agenda-setting to evaluation. A recent Rural Pact Policy Lab explored how rural proofing can be more effectively embedded in policymaking at national and regional levels.
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
New brochure: culture and well-being in rural communities
This short publication by ELARD examines culture, well-being, and youth mental health in rural areas, highlighting the unique challenges rural communities face. The brochure explores the potential of telehealth to bridge gaps, offering a way to reach youth and promote equitable mental health care.
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
New youth inclusion toolkit for local authorities
The toolkit offers a concise overview of the benefits and ways of involving young people in nature-based solutions. Aimed at local governments, educators, and NGOs, the toolkit provides practical methods to support youth engagement, strengthen social-ecological resilience, and empower young people.
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
New policy briefs and factsheets on tackling energy poverty in rural Europe
The EU-funded RENOVERTY project has released two sets of resources aimed at supporting a just energy transition in rural areas across Europe. The new policy briefs and country-specific factsheets are intended to equip policymakers, practitioners, and community stakeholders with the tools needed to replicate successful strategies.
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
New Citizen Energy Advisory Hub: empowering communities in Europe’s energy transition
The Citizen Energy Advisory Hub (CEAH), recently launched by the European Commission, is a pioneering initiative designed to promote a bottom-up approach to the energy transition, enhance citizen participation, and strengthen the social dimension across the EU.
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
Rural communities in the next EU budget: sign up for our Policy Lab by 22 September
Join us on 5 November in Brussels to discuss the European Commission’s proposals for the 2028-2034 EU budget and policies, their implications for rural communities, and ways to make rural voices heard in the policy debate.
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
Join the new Community group on energy transition in rural areas: connect and exchange with peers!
The group is now live on the Rural Pact platform, offering a collaborative space for local and regional authorities, practitioners, policymakers, and stakeholders dedicated to empowering fair and sustainable energy planning in rural Europe.
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
European Commission unveils the 2028–2034 EU budget proposals that will shape the future of rural areas
The newly launched EU proposal for the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028–2034 sets out a EUR 1 985 billion budget. According to the proposal, the largest part of the budget would be programmed by Member States through National and Regional Partnership Plans covering economic, social and territorial cohesion, agriculture, rural and maritime prosperity and security. Following political negotiations and agreement on the final regulations, Member States would begin drafting their Partnership Plans in consultation with regional and local stakeholders.
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
