The future of our villages is not defined by what is missing, but by the potential we choose to cultivate. It is with this mindset that RootRural – Roots and Horizons was created, a European project co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme, bringing together Asociación Tierras Sorianas del Cid (Spain) and Rural Move (Portugal) in a shared mission: to revitalise rural territories along the Douro River basin.
A Strategic Meeting in Miranda do Douro
Last February, the teams from both countries held their first in-person meeting in Miranda do Douro, marking the operational launch of the project’s implementation. More than a planning session, these days represented a deep immersion into the resilience and innovation already thriving within the Mirandese territory.
During the visit, partners explored reference projects that exemplify the “Culture of Opportunities” that RootRural aims to promote:
- Cutelaria Martins, in Palaçoulo, combining artisanal tradition with cutting-edge technology and international markets.
- AEPGA, working on the preservation of the Miranda donkey while fostering social and educational development.
- Casa da Língua Mirandesa, a fundamental pillar in safeguarding the region’s cultural and linguistic heritage.
A Clear Objective: Activate and Connect
RootRural is not just a training programme; it is a systemic intervention designed to transform the narrative of “scarcity” into a mindset of abundance and collaboration. Through a hands-on pathway, the project focuses on:
- Activating Skills: Developing leadership, entrepreneurship, and digital literacy among rural youth and adults.
- Strengthening Communities: Creating co-creation labs where local populations design solutions to their own challenges.
- Building a European Network: Connecting the realities of Soria and Miranda do Douro, establishing a network for exchange and mentorship that extends beyond the project’s duration.
Next Steps: Join the Change
The official implementation is already underway, and the first strategic training workshops begin in March. We aim to identify social and economic entrepreneurs, local stakeholders, and families willing to become true agents of change in their communities.
RootRural brings together Portugal and Spain to strengthen rural areas through training, collaboration, and the exchange of experiences. More updates on the activity calendar in both territories will be shared soon.
Do you want to be part of this transformation?
If you live or work in a rural area and have an idea or project you want to develop, express your interest now.
[Fill in the Interest Form here]
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This project is co-funded by the European Union through the Erasmus+ programme (KA210-ADU).
Roots and Horizons: Cultivating a Culture of Opportunities in the Territory
Funded by: Erasmus+ (2025-1-ES01-KA210-ADU-000353379)
