With the launch of a new international project, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry – Vratsa (CCI-Vratsa) is once again taking an active role in promoting the sustainable development of rural and mountainous regions.
On June 10–11, 2025, Ms. Maya Milova, Executive Director, and Ms. Ekaterina Nikolova, Marketing Expert, participated in the kick-off meeting of the Rural COOP project in Trento, Italy, funded by the Interreg Europe programme. The event brought together partners from Italy, Finland, Poland, Sweden, Switzerland, Albania, and Bulgaria.
CCI-Vratsa is a key participant in the newly initiated project, leading the "Communication and Dissemination" work package. In this role, the Chamber will coordinate strategic communication, actively engage stakeholders, and promote sustainable policies and practices aimed at developing green communities in rural areas.
Additionally, CCI-Vratsa is responsible for the development and implementation of the peer review methodology, a tool that will encourage the exchange of good practices and enhance the quality of regional policies. In Bulgaria, the project will be implemented in partnership with the Municipality of Byala Slatina, focusing on improving local instruments for integrated development.
During the kick-off meeting, participants discussed key topics related to project management, communication strategies, and planning future training sessions, study visits, and thematic workshops. Special attention was given to the Forecasting and Anticipation Method (FAM), which partners will use to develop innovative approaches for long-term planning and active involvement of local communities in development processes.
The Rural COOP project will run until July 2029 and aims to enhance regional cooperation, promote sustainable tourism, improve natural resource management, and foster greater citizen participation in decision-making processes. The project is led by the Autonomous Province of Trento, with a consortium comprising organizations dedicated to sustainable and inclusive rural development.
For more information, please visit the project website (https://www.interregeurope.eu/rural-coop) or contact CCI-Vratsa.
