Project details

Preparatory Action on Smart Rural Areas in the 21st Century – Smart Rural 21 project

'Smart villages' in the context of the Smart Rural 21 project are understood as rural areas and communities which - building on their strengths and challenges - follow a development and innovation process based on participation and cooperation. Digital solutions play a key role in this process, but are only one of several elements alongside other technical and social innovations.

In the 'Preparatory Action on Smart Rural Areas in the 21st Century' funded by the European Commission, the municipalities are supported in developing and implementing smart strategies corresponding to the above-named process. Conclusions for future measures on smart rural areas are to be derived from the results.

Throughout the EU, a total of 17 smart villages will be selected within the framework of the project, and will receive guidance and technical support. Five municipalities in Ireland, Finland, France, the Czech Republic and Greece have already been selected, another 12 will be added by the end of April 2020 through an application process.

The IfLS is responsible for the application process of the municipalities in Germany and contributes its expertise in specific thematic areas, including bio-economy and sharing economy.

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