The Interreg Aurora funded small-scale project Smart Ruralities that was completed in November 2023 has explored innovative solutions for sustainable rural development. Led by the Swedish Ostrobothnia Youth Association (SÖU) in Finland, alongside Hela Sverige ska leva in Västerbotten and Norrbotten, Sweden, the project aimed to strengthen cooperation and knowledge exchange across borders.
The project hosted two workshops in Finland and Sweden, bringing together stakeholders from rural communities, municipalities, and businesses. These workshops focused on critical themes such as service accessibility, housing, cultural engagement, and innovative collaboration models. By using participatory methods and dialogue cafés, the project fostered meaningful discussions and co-creation of ideas.
“Meetings like this gives new ideas and new contacts” says the project manager Jonas “Josip” Rönnqvist.
A key outcome of the project was the identification of two primary focus areas: collaborative service solutions and enhancing social conditions in rural areas. Participants recognized the need for new service models, shared infrastructure, and stronger networks between local actors. Study visits to best-practice projects further enriched the learning experience, showcasing successful rural development initiatives in both countries.
The cross-border collaboration provided significant added value by facilitating knowledge sharing and laying the groundwork for future joint initiatives. A potential follow-up project is under discussion.
More information about the Smart Ruralities project can be found at: SÖU’s project page and Hela Sverige ska leva Västerbotten’s website.
Read more about Smart Ruralities here.
Read Smart Ruralities Final Report in Swedish
