Empowering rural SMEs to scale beyond borders!
In today’s fast-changing economic environment, rural small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Latvia, Estonia, and Finland encounter both distinctive challenges and emerging opportunities – from limited access to networks and export markets to an increasing need for innovation and more resilient business models.
To address these challenges, the Rural-UP project was developed in partnership with organisations from Latvia, Estonia and Finland. The project aims to empower rural companies to scale and grow sustainably. Through a structured 12-month scaling-up programme, the initiative will support at least 20 rural SMEs in Latvia, Estonia and Finland, helping them enhance their business models, boost competitiveness, and expand into international markets.
The programme will begin with a joint Open Call that is planned to be launched at the end of January, inviting rural SMEs in Latvia, Estonia and Finland to apply. After submission, applications will be assessed according to predefined criteria, and the most promising companies will be selected to join the 12-month programme.
The participating companies will benefit from:
- Targeted webinars designed around their specific development needs;
- International exchange visits, encouraging knowledge sharing and collaboration;
- Participation in international business events, including trade fairs and exhibitions;
- Personalised mentoring and expert consultations, helping each company achieve its growth objectives;
- A final conference, where participants will present their progress, share insights, and celebrate their accomplishments.
What has been done so far?
“In the first six months of the project, partners from Latvia, Estonia, and Finland have been working intensively on creating the scaling-up Methodology and Implementation Guidelines, ensuring a consistent and effective approach across all regions involved. Follow the latest updates – an exciting opportunity for rural SMEs is just around the corner!” says Justīne Skrastiņa, Business Support Project Manager in Valmiera Development Agency.
The project Rural Enterprise Expansion Initiative (Rural-UP | CB0600372) is funded under the
Interreg Central Baltic Programme 2021–2027.
