A Year of Development and Engagement
In 2024, ELARD Knowledge Hub has remained engaged in knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and rural development initiatives. By participating in key projects and expanding our network, we have continued to support the LEADER approach and rural communities across Europe.
One of the highlights of the year was our participation in the LEADER Congress in Poitiers, where we co-organized discussions aimed at reinforcing the future of the LEADER approach. We also launched the LEADER Youth Network, a platform for young actors within LEADER-CLLD, in cooperation with the ELARD presidency. This initiative empowers young voices and fosters their active participation in rural development.
A Growing Team and New Projects
This year, we welcomed two new team members, Triin Nõmm and Marie Permingeat, who bring valuable expertise and fresh perspectives to our work. We also embarked on a new initiative, COM4LDG, which focuses on strengthening local sustainable development, climate action, community organizing, and cooperation across all 27 EU member states.
Advancing European Projects
In 2024, ELARD Knowledge Hub has been actively involved in eight EU-funded projects, each contributing to different aspects of rural development. Among them, EC4RURAL has worked to accelerate the green transition in rural areas, while Renoverty has developed sustainable and financially viable solutions for energy-efficient housing renovations in vulnerable regions.
The RUSTIK project has continued to provide valuable knowledge and tools for sustainable rural transformation, while DigiMedFor has focused on modernizing the Mediterranean forest-wood supply chain through digital innovations. Through FLIARA, we have supported women leading innovative environmental and rural development initiatives.
Additionally, this year saw the conclusion of two significant projects: RECAH, which promoted the development of rural energy communities, and CoWork4Youth, which examined employment opportunities for young people in less developed regions. The insights gained from these projects will continue to guide our future work.
Knowledge and Insights – Now Available on Our Website
To make valuable knowledge more accessible, we have launched a dedicated Insights section on our website, where we gather resources, research, and best practices to support Local Action Groups (LAGs) and other rural stakeholders. This section serves as a hub for reports, policy recommendations, and practical tools to inspire and guide sustainable rural development.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we move into 2025, ELARD Knowledge Hub remains committed to fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and supporting the continuous development of rural policies and initiatives across Europe. We extend our gratitude to all our partners and members for your dedication and engagement—together, we are shaping a more resilient and thriving future for rural Europe.