Slow Food Trebinje Herzegovina is a partner in the SMART ERA project – Smart Community-Led Transition for Europe’s Rural Areas. The project is funded through the Horizon programme and implemented by a consortium of 25 partners from across Europe. The lead partner is the Bruno Kessler Foundation (Fondazione Bruno Kessler) from Italy.

SMART ERA aims to reduce vulnerabilities and strengthen resilience in rural areas by upgrading, co-designing, co-developing and co-validating, together with local communities, a set of digital and non-digital solutions. These solutions are supported by effective methods to analyse and address key socio-economic and environmental challenges, while promoting a smart, community-led transition that empowers rural populations to actively drive change.

In Eastern Herzegovina, the pilot approach focuses on the valorisation of the region’s cultural and gastronomic heritage. Young, well-educated people—particularly designers and IT experts—will be engaged to enhance marketing strategies and support digitalisation processes. At the same time, special attention will be given to youth and women, recognised as key pillars of rural households.

This approach is expected to contribute to the diversification of rural household activities and increased income generation. In parallel, Herzegovina’s rich historical and cultural heritage will be promoted as an attractive destination for sustainable tourism.

The project has a duration of four years. The total budget allocated to the Association of Slow Food Trebinje Herzegovina for the entire project period amounts to EUR 114,500.00.

Rural areas are often considered outdated, with limited services and an ageing population. However, they are now on the verge of a digital and green revolution, which could reverse migration trends.

SMART ERA is set to breathe new life into rural areas by providing smart innovation packages (SIPs) to combat depopulation and address socio-economic and environmental challenges. SMART ERA is spearheading  a community-centric transformation encompassing technology, governance, business, society, and policymaking.