News in brief:
– The European Commission has introduced the EU Rural Toolkit, a user-friendly guide with 26 EU funds, simplifying access to funding opportunities for rural areas, benefiting local farmers.
– It offers automatic translations, an interactive funding finder, inspiring success stories, and guidance, aligning with the Commission’s long-term vision for resilient and prosperous EU rural areas.
The European Commission has launched the EU Rural Toolkit, simplifying access to funding opportunities for rural areas across the EU. With 26 diverse EU funds, ranging from the Common Agricultural Policy to Horizon Europe, the toolkit aims to streamline the process for potential beneficiaries, particularly local farmers.
According to the Commission’s announcment, this tool functions as a comprehensive gateway, providing automatic translations in all EU languages. It empowers rural entrepreneurs and local authorities to effortlessly navigate through various funding options based on their role, desired activities, and preferred support type, including grants, financial instruments, or technical assistance.
How to use the EU Rural Toolkit
Through an interactive funding finder, users can filter schemes according to their specific needs. Once identified, key information about relevant programs is available in printable factsheets, offering insights into how each option benefits rural areas. The toolkit ensures accessibility, equipping applicants with knowledge and tools to address local needs effectively.
A unique feature of the toolkit is its showcase of inspiring success stories. Users can explore examples and case studies, discovering how EU funds have successfully transformed rural areas. From Portugal’s Biovilla cooperative championing sustainability to Italy’s Meridaunia organisation boosting rural tourism and agriculture, these stories highlight the positive impact of EU funding.
In addition to funding opportunities, the toolkit provides extensive guidance on optimizing available resources. Users can access tips, guidance documents, reports, and manuals tailored to specific sectors, including broadband, culture, education, energy, environment, and tourism.
Long-term vision for prosperous rural areas
The EU Rural Toolkit aligns with the Commission’s long-term vision for stronger, connected, resilient, and prosperous rural areas in the EU. Covering 83% of the EU territory and housing 30% of the population, rural areas play a vital role in the EU’s development.
The toolkit, part of the broader Rural Action Plan and Rural Pact, signifies a significant step towards fostering collaboration and development at various levels. As local farmers navigate the toolkit, they gain not just financial support but also valuable insights and inspiration, paving the way for a more vibrant and sustainable rural future.
