Latest news
The social economy and rural development: how EU policies make a difference
The social economy is a vital part of rural life, helping communities face challenges from demographic decline to lack of services and opportunities. This article looks at the progress so far with implementing the EU’s social economy action plan, Rural Pact members’ contribution to its mid-term review, and what’s in store for the next phase.
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
ESF+ funding opportunity for inclusive entrepreneurship grants
A call for proposals has launched for projects promoting inclusive entrepreneurship in the EU. Apply for an ESF+ action grant by 2 September 2026.
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
European Commission releases mid-term review of social economy action plan
The social economy helps turn EU priorities into effective solutions for people and places, contributing to regional and rural development. A mid-term review of the EU’s social economy action plan (SEAP) has found that despite progress at national and international levels, significant untapped potential remains at regional and municipal levels.
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
Upcoming events
Strengthening rural businesses for a more competitive Europe: creating value through business support, territorial assets and social economy
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
Latest publications
Rural Vision Magazine | Edition 3
The third edition of the Rural Vision Magazine features a range of stakeholder voices on the most pressing developments around the EU rural vision and Pact in 2025.
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
Rural Vision Magazine | Edition 2
The second edition of the Magazine features a range of stakeholder voices on the most pressing developments around the EU’s rural vision and Pact in 2024.
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
Highlights Report | Good Practice Webinar ‘Fostering social entrepreneurship in rural areas through local action’
This highlights report summarises the key messages and discussions at the dedicated Good Practice Webinar of 11 May 2023, hosted online by the Rural Pact Support Office.
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
Latest good practice
Employment House: developing a rural social enterprise model for inclusion and local job creation in Lithuania
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
Villages Vivants: rural community development cooperative in France
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
‘Honey Routes’ project: revitalising rural Cyprus through sustainable tourism
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform