EU Rural Tourism Project comes to an end with remarkable results
Today – February 28, 2025 – marks the successful conclusion of EU Rural Tourism, a project co-funded by the COSME program of the European Union that has aimed at bolstering rural tourism SMEs and creating the Eurocluster Rural Tourism.
Around 190 Micro- and Nano rural tourism businesses in 19 countries have been empowered and uplifted, enhancing their competitiveness and resilience. EU Rural Tourism has been a transformative journey for the rural tourism businesses receiving the project support, fostering growth, innovation, and sustainability.
The Project Consortium- composed of Venetian Cluster; The National Cluster Association (NCA); Euracademy, European Federation of Rural Tourism (RURALTOUR); the Harghita Community Development Association (ADI Harghita) and El Clúster de Turismo Sostenible de Aragón (TSAC) - is delighted with the remarkable results achieved, as well as the networks formed among the businesses, as well as between the businesses and Assistance Service Providers that have accompanied all the SMEs throughout this journey.
The positive impact on the participating SMEs has been truly inspiring, and many of them have reported significant enhancements in their operations, as well as increased customer satisfaction and a better understanding of sustainable practices. This positive momentum aligns perfectly with the broader goals of the European Green Deal, as the project has contributed to advancing the double transition towards a greener and more digital economy.
These are some of the testimonials provided by the SMEs supported through the project:
“The project helped us improve many things, and we are happy that our expert, Jan Orava, helped us prepare everything. Thank you to NCA and EuroCluster Rural Tourism for this opportunity.” -TJ Sport Nemcicky, (Czech Republic)
“Projects like this are totally necessary to promote the double transition of the EU. They generate wealth in initiatives in the most disadvantaged rural areas, contributing to their economy and guaranteeing the permanence of their habitats in the territory.” - La Ojinegra (Spain)
“We had a great experience participating in this project. The program provided valuable insights, practical knowledge, and useful tools for our business development. The AI course was particularly beneficial, helping us explore new digital opportunities. Overall, the project was well organized, and we appreciate the support and expertise provided.” - Kalman-Endre Parajdi (Romania)
“This is one of the first EU projects that we participated in, and although it was relatively small, we selected to implement a number of activities that we found important for our company's digitalisation, certification and rural tourism product development. We had extraordinary support during the implementation, and although it was somewhat challenging to implement some of the activities during the tourist season, we surpassed our targets and learned a lot in the process. This project was really significant for us, and the overall experience encouraged us to look for other opportunities to grow and learn through projects and regional cooperation.” - Montenegro Adventures (Montenegro)
“The EuroCluster Rural Tourism Project provided invaluable support in enhancing our sustainability and competitiveness. The structured methodology and expert guidance helped us implement new products and sustainability protocols effectively. We highly appreciate the initiative and look forward to more opportunities like this in the future! We strongly encourage other rural tourism SMEs to participate, as this program brings real value and growth opportunities. Additional funding for EuroCluster would further amplify the positive impact, enabling even more businesses to benefit and thrive.” - Touring Macedonia LLC SP (North Macedonia)
“We were truly satisfied with our experience with Venetian Cluster. A company that stands out for its great professionalism and attention to detail. We found a competent and helpful team, always ready to address any needs with speed and precision. The quality of the service provided is excellent, and the approach is always client-oriented.”- GRACE SRL (Italy)
Also, the Assistants Services Providers (ASPs) who supported the SMEs while participating in the project decided to share their experiences.
“The EuroCluster Rural Tourism project was a great tool to reach Czech SMEs and support their needs in the three relevant areas. The Czech SMEs bridged the gap where needed and used the project and expert’s support for the successful completion of their projects” - Ludek Kuhr
"Our participation in the COSME program, as an ASP, was really a fruitful and creative experience that gave us knowledge on how with small interventions we can achieve big goals. Thanks for your support!” - Development Agency of Karditsa
“This was an extremely valuable and impactful project, not only for the beneficiaries but also for us as an advisory organisation and as consultants. The insights gained will allow us to provide more effective support to the sector. While the project directly involved a limited number of beneficiaries, its positive impact will reach far beyond them.” - FATOSZ - Falusi és Agroturizmus Országos Szövetsége
As the EU Rural Tourism project comes to an end, the Consortium remains committed to becoming a referent on this sector through the constitution of the EuroCluster Rural Tourism. The lessons learned will be invaluable in shaping the future of rural tourism in Europe.
Since 2022, EU Rural Tourism has also gathered more than 200 resources that help small and medium enterprises in rural tourism boost their opportunities and help make rural tourism the best option for travellers. You can check them on our website here.
