SMARTERA

SMART ERA is dedicated to revitalising rural landscapes by addressing depopulation and tackling socio-economic and environmental challenges over the next four years. Our impacts will span across technology, governance, business, society, and policymaking, fostering sustainable development and growth.

SIX PILOT REGIONS LEADING THE WAY:

• Val di Sole, Trentino, Italy
• Northern Ostrobothnia, Finland
• Trebinje, East Herzegovina, Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Tramuntana/Sóller, Spain
• Šmarje-Padna, Slovenia, Italy, Croatia
• Devetaki Plateau, Bulgaria

THE SMART ERA APPROACH:

1. INCEPTION
In this phase, we will develop a method based on rural innovators’ insights to assess rural areas’ intelligence and select innovations for Smart Innovation Packages (SIPs).

2. DEVELOPMENT
We introduce a holistic framework for tackling rural challenges sustainably. We start by launching an Open Call, inviting SMEs and tech providers in pilot regions to propose solutions, providing financial support.

3. PILOTING
Entering this phase, we’ll validate our solutions to meet the evolving needs of rural communities. By mid-phase, pilots will verify SIP effectiveness. Finally, enhanced SIP versions will be ready for further evaluation.

4. TRANSITION
After the piloting phase, we’ll leverage the results to foster knowledge exchange, inform policy, and develop a dissemination toolkit for national and EU levels. We’ll launch a second Open Call for more technological solutions to enhance our SIPs. Deploying these innovations in four additional rural regions will promote widespread adoption and sustainable development.