Rural-UP
Rural Enterprise Expansion Initiative
To implement joint scaling-up programme to support the growth of enterprises in food and beverage production and related sectors (such as packaging and design) in rural areas of Kymenlaakso.
Growth, collaboration, and new opportunities powered by the flavors of the countryside!
Project goal
The aim of the project is to promote the growth and development of companies operating in the rural food and beverage industry and related sectors.
At least 20 companies from Latvia, Finland, and Estonia will be recruited to participate in the project. In Finland, the development efforts will focus on food and beverage companies in the Kymenlaakso region.
The selected companies will be offered information on growth opportunities through information seminars, examples of best practices, and encouragement to engage in network-based collaboration.
The project will also create a permanent operational model for business support organizations to strengthen expert networks, inter-company cooperation, and development activities.
Rural-UP – Supporting the Growth of Rural Enterprises
Rural-UP is an international project that supports the growth and competitiveness of rural enterprises in Latvia, Finland, and Estonia. The project focuses particularly on developing the business operations of SMEs, accessing new markets, and promoting sustainable solutions. Rural-UP is funded by the Interreg Central Baltic Programme by the European Union.
Key measures of the project
Activity 1.1 Development of scaling-up programme methodology and implementation guide
Company support measures will be mapped and tailored to meet business needs.
Activity 1.2 Setting up the common mentors and experts database
The growth of companies is supported by leveraging the diverse expertise and experience of the participating countries.
Activity 1.3 The selection of companies
Growth-oriented companies are selected for the program, and tailored growth plans are created to support them.
Activity 1.4 Scaling-up of selected companies
The support measures for business growth include mentoring, expert training, benchmarking, events, and consultations.
Activity 1.5 Development of guideline-based role model
The guided growth model, based on the program’s experiences, provides practical recommendations to support the growth of companies and support organizations.
Facts
Rural-UP – Rural Enterprise Expansion Initiative
Info
Budget
Project partners
- Valmiera Development Agency (VDA)
- Latgale Planning Region (LPR)
- South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences (Xamk)
- Tartu Business Advisory Services Foundation (Tartu BAS)