• 24 Local Action Groups (LAGs) from Extremadura present the cooperation project “Smart Rural Living, Living Rural Areas, Smart Towns.”
• The project was born with the aim of revitalizing the rural world through innovative smart territory strategies.

How can we revitalize rural areas through digital innovation and sustainability? This was the central question addressed during the webinar " Smart Regions and Territories: Smart Rural Living Project , " a virtual event held on October 23.

The event brought together more than 300 participants from various regions of Spain, with the aim of promoting the digital transformation of rural areas through smart territories . This concept advocates the use of new technologies to improve the quality of life in rural areas and foster their economic development.

The event was organized by the 24 GAL Extremadurans , with ADISMONTA as the coordinating group. The event featured more than 20 experts who discussed the opportunities and challenges facing rural areas in their digital transformation process.

Challenges of digital transformation in rural areas

In the first part of the event, the need to overcome the technological, economic, and connectivity barriers that still affect many of Spain's rural areas was highlighted. Among the main challenges mentioned were the lack of adequate infrastructure for the implementation of advanced technologies, the shortage of specialized training in digitalization, and the resistance of some communities to change.

Another challenge noted was the lack of coordination between the various actors involved in rural development, such as GALs, public administrations, and technology companies.

Initiatives to advance towards smart regions

Despite the challenges, the event was also an opportunity to showcase the innovative solutions already being implemented in various regions, such as:

• Promoting digital training : The importance of providing ongoing training to local stakeholders, from farmers to LAG managers, was highlighted so that they can effectively implement and leverage digital tools.
• Development of technological infrastructure : Projects were mentioned that seek to improve connectivity in rural areas, facilitating access to high-speed internet and other key technologies for the development of smart territories.
• Implementing co-creation solutions : LAGs are working closely with rural communities to design and implement sustainable development projects that leverage local capacities and promote resilience.

The event also highlighted the crucial role of LAGs in implementing these solutions. Thanks to their closeness to rural communities and their experience in project management, these groups are key players in the digital transformation of rural areas. Furthermore, the creation of "Smart Region Strategies" was mentioned, which seek to integrate new technologies in a way that is consistent with local needs and potential.

Upcoming actions and available resources

The project continues with an online training program for LAG technicians and representatives, with the aim of empowering them to implement "Smart Regions." In addition, awareness-raising and collaboration activities are being organized with LAG Boards of Directors to promote the co-creation of innovative solutions that foster the digitalization of rural areas.

For more information and access to training resources, interested parties can visit the Smart Rural Extremadura project's online platform .

This project is part of the LEADER 19.3 Extremadura PDR 2014-2020 cooperation program and is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).