PROSPERO Kick-off held in Mentana
On 28 and 29 May 2025, the historic town of Mentana, with its City Council as Lead Partner, hosted the official launch of the Interreg Europe PROSPERO project. Over the course of two days, local, regional, and international stakeholders came together to kick off this ambitious European initiative focused on empowering Creative and Cultural Industries (CCIs) as key drivers of sustainable and inclusive regional development.
Over the course of two days, participants explored Mentana’s vibrant cultural heritage, engaged in strategic dialogue, and shared experiences and best practices in policy development. With a focus on fostering inclusive, sustainable, and digitally adaptive regions, the event marked a meaningful step in shaping a future where CCIs are fully recognised as drivers of prosperity and resilience.
The event featured a series of immersive site visits—ranging from archaeological museums and historical landmarks to community libraries and heritage battle sites—highlighting how cultural assets can be transformed into active hubs of local economic and social development. These field experiences provided valuable insights into how local stakeholders are integrating cultural resources with tourism, entrepreneurship, and education.
Workshops and policy sessions underscored the importance of effective public frameworks that support innovation within the CCIs while ensuring accessibility and social equity. Discussions emphasised the role of CCIs in fostering community cohesion, preserving identity, and opening new opportunities for creative entrepreneurship—especially for young people and vulnerable groups.
At the core of the PROSPERO project lies a commitment to smarter, greener, and more inclusive regional development. By aligning with EU goals for a social and sustainable Europe, the project supports participating regions in refining strategic frameworks and directing investments that unlock the full potential of CCIs.
The Mentana kick-off marked the first in a series of PROSPERO Interregional Meetings, which will rotate across participating countries. The next meeting is scheduled for 30 September – 1 October 2025 in Middelfart, Denmark, continuing the momentum toward integrated cultural policy and shared European progress.