Fourth Stakeholder Group Meeting Held in Slovenia

Smart House hosted their fourth local stakeholder group meeting in Filovci, Slovenia, on February 20, 2025. The meeting focused on presenting the Rural Youth Future project, particularly the opportunities offered by the first call for proposals under the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).

Metod continues the family tradition of viticulture that has been present since his great-grandfather. His great-grandfather lived his youth and gained experience on French vineyards and in the Bordeaux cellars as a winemaker. He was the first to bring vine grafts to the area of the Filovsko wine-growing region. The young heir transforms the secrets into harmoniously framed wines. The study of entrepreneurship led Metod to the establishment of the PANON brand. His entrepreneurial challenge was to preserve the old vineyards. He mainly cultivates vineyards older than 30 years, which he recultivates and harvests. In 2023, he transitioned to organic viticulture. His wife Larisa Lara, who is a veterinarian by profession, takes care of the animals on the organic farm and presents her love of cuisine to guests on their plates.

The main focus of the meeting was the presentation of the 1st EAFRD call for proposals, which is also adapted to young applicants.

• Target group: Young people interested in developing projects in rural areas (entrepreneurship, tourism, sustainable development, cultural and social initiatives).
• Adapted call criteria: Young people's projects will be evaluated more highly, giving them a better chance of obtaining funding.
• Key criteria: Increasing competences and knowledge: Support for projects involving training, education and the development of new skills.

Development of new programmes, products and services: Focus on innovation and sustainability in the design of new business models and products.

At the meeting, we highlighted the importance of adapting the call for proposals to the needs of young people, as one of the key objectives of the project is to create a supportive environment in which young people can realise their innovative ideas and contribute to the development of the Pomurje region.

The participants unanimously highlighted that supporting young people is crucial for the future of Goričko, as young people have fresh ideas, energy and a desire for change that can contribute to a more vibrant and sustainable countryside.

After the presentation of the call, an interactive discussion with stakeholders and young potential applicants followed. Several important themes were highlighted:

• Access to information and advice: young people are often not aware of funding opportunities, so it is essential to increase information and offer advice when applying for the call. Organisation of additional workshops and mentoring sessions where experienced entrepreneurs and experts would help young people to prepare project proposals.
• Administrative obstacles and simplification of procedures: Young people express fear of bureaucracy and complex application procedures. Simplification of procedures, development of good practice examples that can serve as role models for young applicants.
• Young people expressed a strong interest in projects related to eco-agriculture and sustainable production. Additionally, the digitalisation of rural areas and e-business practices are becoming increasingly prevalent. There is also a pressing need to further develop cultural and tourism facilities in these regions. Encouraging networking and collaboration among young people will facilitate the development of joint projects and help them connect with like-minded individuals.

The meeting was also a great opportunity to bring together different stakeholders who can offer their knowledge, experience and resources to support young people in the realisation of their projects. Collaboration with local businesses and farms creates opportunities for mentoring and partnership projects that enable experienced entrepreneurs to assist young people in developing their ideas. Involving municipalities and development agencies enhances infrastructure and provides valuable administrative support for youth projects.

The fourth stakeholder meeting was successful in bringing together young people, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders who believe in the potential of young people in the development of Goričko. Support, mentoring and clear guidance will be key elements for young people to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the 1st Call for Proposals and contribute to a better future for rural areas through their projects. Young people have a lot of ideas and motivation, but they need more support in applying and managing their projects. The 1st EAFRD call for proposals is an excellent step towards involving young people in rural development, but better information and mentoring is needed.