We are pleased to share that the Danube4Rural.com project’s partnership meeting successfully took place in Pécs between 19–21 November 2025. Over the three days, experts and institutions from across the Danube Region worked together on solutions that will shape the future of rural areas.
Throughout the professional programme, we provided a comprehensive overview of the project’s progress, reviewed the latest research results, and jointly fine-tuned the policy directions that will form the basis for strengthening rural attractiveness in the future. Special attention was given to innovative tools supporting the attraction of remote workers and to preparing the upcoming pilot phase. One of the meeting’s key professional elements was the presentation of the Governance Model, which offered an important reference point for stakeholders in the region.
Under STRIA’s leadership, synergy building also played a central role: partners were introduced to the SMILE Incubator project, which opened up new perspectives and collaboration opportunities for Danube4Rural.com—especially in the areas of youth engagement and digital community-building.
The programme was marked by strong international cooperation, constructive dialogue, and inspiring professional insights. During the joint workshops and informal discussions, participants further strengthened their partnerships and contributed fresh ideas for the upcoming stages of the project.
We would like to extend our special thanks to the Palatinus Grand Hotel for providing a wonderful venue and professional hospitality, which played a significant role in ensuring the high organisational and professional quality of the meeting.
We truly appreciate the active participation of all partners—together we continue building the future of rural areas across the Danube Region!
The Danube4Rural.com project is co-financed by the European Union and the Hungarian State within the framework of the Interreg Danube Region programme.
