We would like to draw your attention to an opportunity that may be of particular interest given its strong relevance to key EUSAIR priorities, including addressing depopulation, mitigating brain drain, promoting the “right to stay”, strengthening the attractiveness and resilience of rural areas.
Eligible local communities and organisations can consider applying to become one of the SMART ERA follower regions. Successful applicants will benefit from financial support, mentoring and capacity-building services aimed at fostering smart and sustainable rural development.
This opportunity is offered under the SMART ERA project – SMART community-led transition for Europe’s Rural Areas – an EU-funded initiative that empowers rural communities to embrace sustainable transition and foster cooperation across European regions. The project focuses on revitalising rural landscapes through smart innovation packages designed to combat depopulation and address socio-economic and environmental challenges. Bringing together 25 partners from 10 European countries, including several EUSAIR countries, SMART ERA aims to strengthen rural areas by reducing vulnerabilities while attracting talent, investment and new development opportunities.
We are pleased to inform you that the 2nd Open Call for Followers Micro-Pilots under the SMART ERA project is now officially open for applications. Through this call, SMART ERA aims to transfer its results, methodologies and validation strategies to four new follower regions, engaging new local communities and demonstrating the replicability and impact of the project’s approach.
Successful applicants will receive up to EUR 90,000 in funding and participate in a 12-month mentoring and support programme.
The call is open until 15 September 2026 (13:00 CEST). Applications must be submitted through the official SMART ERA platform.
Full details, eligibility criteria and application guidelines are available on the project website: SMART ERA – Your community, our future