A consortium of 15 partners from 8 countries, including the Institute for Development and Innovation, has initiated the ESIRA project (Enhancing Social Innovation in Rural Areas), supported by the European Commission within the Horizon Europe program. The main goal of the project is to improve the socio-economic status of the population in rural areas.
The Institute for Development and Innovation participated in introductory meetings organized on January 17th and 18th in Burgos, northern Spain. The introductory meeting was organized by the Coordinator of the ESIRA project, the University of Burgos, and brought together 15 partners with a shared vision for the development of local rural communities and the improvement of the economic situation of marginalized groups.
The focus of the meetings was on presentations of work packages by leading organizations and presentations of individual rural areas where ESIRA will be implemented. Important activities and future plans for the fundamental implementation of the project were also debated.
The Institute for Development and Innovation will implement the ESIRA project in the Jablanica and Pcinja districts through mapping marginalized groups (youth in NEET position, women, entrepreneurs) and launching innovative initiatives aimed at strengthening their economic and social status. The Institute will also have a leadership role in implementing communication, dissemination, and exploitation strategies.