RURALFOOD NEXUS

Szigetköz is a unique riverine landscape shaped by the Danube, with strong traditions in local food production and community-based initiatives. The pilot focuses on strengthening short food supply chains, enhancing local cooperation and supporting small-scale producers through innovation and digital tools.

The Veszprém–Balaton region combines rural heritage with dynamic tourism and gastronomy. The pilot explores sustainable food systems, local value chains and innovation opportunities linking agriculture, hospitality and cultural identity in a highly visited rural area. A key element of the pilot is the direct collaboration between local producers and the Michelin Green Star-awarded restaurant Villa Kabala, where Chef András Szabó, also a sustainability expert, sources high-quality local ingredients and creates seasonal degustation menus, offering guests an authentic and highly appreciated farm-to-table experience.

Bacău represents a rural region with significant development potential and active community initiatives. The pilot focuses on local entrepreneurship, social innovation and strengthening community-based food systems, with particular attention to inclusion and grassroots engagement.

The Bitola region is characterised by strong agricultural traditions and emerging rural businesses. The pilot supports small-scale producers and agri-food entrepreneurs through innovation, capacity building and improved access to markets and knowledge.

Dalarna is a diverse region combining rural areas with strong innovation and research capacity. The pilot focuses on digitalisation, data-driven solutions and new models of rural innovation, connecting local communities with advanced knowledge and technology.

Central Macedonia is a key agricultural region with advanced agri-tech potential. The pilot explores precision agriculture, digital monitoring and sustainable food production, aiming to enhance competitiveness and resilience in Mediterranean rural systems.