RURACTIVE Announces Open Call for Innovators
Introduction
RURACTIVE has announced an exciting Open Call for Innovators, inviting creative minds to develop innovative solutions that address the unique challenges faced by rural communities across Europe. This initiative aims to foster collaboration and drive transformation in rural areas by supporting projects that promote sustainable development and enhance the quality of life for rural residents.
What is it?
The RURACTIVE Open Call for Innovators is a competitive process designed to identify and support innovative projects that can make a significant impact on rural communities. The call focuses on developing smart, community-led, tailor-made, place-based, and inclusive solutions that address specific challenges within the scope of the RURACTIVE Rural Development Drivers.
Objectives
The primary objectives of the RURACTIVE Open Call for Innovators are to:
1. Promote Sustainable Development: Encourage projects that contribute to sustainable agri-food systems, ecosystem management, and energy transition.
2. Enhance Cultural and Natural Tourism: Support initiatives that promote nature-based and cultural tourism, as well as cultural innovation.
3. Improve Local Services and Wellbeing: Develop solutions that enhance local services, health, and wellbeing in rural areas.
4. Foster Sustainable Multimodal Mobility: Encourage projects that improve sustainable transportation options in rural regions.
5. Drive Economic Growth: Support innovations that create economic opportunities and drive growth in rural communities.
Benefits
Selected applicants to the Open Call will gain access to a range of benefits, including:
1. Funding: Receive up to €90,000 in funding to kickstart and scale your project.
2. Expert Guidance: Benefit from dedicated mentors who will guide the development of your project.
3. Direct Collaboration: Work closely with rural dynamos to co-develop community-focused solutions.
4. Capacity Building: Participate in comprehensive training and capacity-building activities.
5. Opportunity for Stage 2: Progress to the second stage of the RURACTIVE Innovators Programme, where you can receive additional funding and support for pilot development and solution replication.
Categories
The RURACTIVE Open Call for Innovators features several categories, each targeting a specific aspect of rural development. These categories include:
1. Sustainable Agri-food Systems and Ecosystem Management: Projects that promote sustainable agricultural practices and ecosystem conservation.
2. Nature-based and Cultural Tourism: Initiatives that enhance tourism experiences focused on nature and culture.
3. Culture and Cultural Innovation: Projects that preserve and promote cultural heritage and innovation.
4. Sustainable Multimodal Mobility: Solutions that improve transportation options and sustainability in rural areas.
5. Energy Transition and Climate Neutrality: Innovations that support the transition to renewable energy and climate neutrality.
6. Local Services, Health, and Wellbeing: Projects that enhance local services and improve the health and wellbeing of rural residents.
Who Can Participate?
The Open Call is open to individuals, startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and researchers from European countries and associated countries. Applicants must submit a detailed proposal outlining their innovative solution, its potential impact, and a plan for implementation. Projects developed by consortia of maximum two entities, with the coordinator being an SME or startup, are also eligible.
How Can One Participate?
Participating in the RURACTIVE Open Call for Innovators is straightforward. Here are the steps to enter:
1. Visit the Official Website: Go to the RURACTIVE Open Call webpage and read the guidelines carefully.
2. Prepare Your Proposal: Develop a detailed proposal outlining your innovative solution, its potential impact, and a plan for implementation.
3. Submit Your Entry: Complete the online application form and upload any required documents.
4. Wait for Judging: Your proposal will be evaluated by a panel of experts, and finalists will be announced.
5. Present Your Pitch: Finalists will have the opportunity to present their pitches at the RURACTIVE Demo Day, where they can showcase their projects and gain visibility.
Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
1. Innovation: The uniqueness and creativity of the proposed solution.
2. Feasibility: The practicality and feasibility of implementing the solution.
3. Impact: The potential impact of the solution on rural communities.
4. Scalability: The potential for scaling the solution to other rural areas.
5. Sustainability: The sustainability and long-term viability of the solution.
Deadline Date
The deadline for submitting entries to the RURACTIVE Open Call for Innovators is February 5, 2025. Make sure to submit your proposal well before the deadline to ensure it is considered.
Learn More About the Event
To learn more about the RURACTIVE Open Call for Innovators, visit the official website at RURACTIVE Open Call for Innovators. Here, you can find detailed information about the competition, entry requirements, categories, prizes, and previous winners. You can also stay updated on any announcements or changes related to the challenge.
The RURACTIVE Open Call for Innovators is a fantastic opportunity for innovators to contribute to the sustainable and inclusive growth of rural communities.
