On November 19, 2024, the GRANULAR research project, funded by the HORIZON EUROPE program, convened its General Assembly Meeting in a virtual format. The event brought together more than 40 participants, including representatives from PREPARE, as well as experts from 22 partner organizations across Europe.
The consortium is dedicated to developing new datasets, tools, and methods to enhance our understanding of rural areas. By uncovering insights into the characteristics, dynamics, and drivers of change in these regions, GRANULAR aims to support the creation of tailor-made, place-based policies designed to meet the unique needs of rural communities.
Key Highlights of the Meeting
The meeting provided an opportunity for project partners to:
- Review Progress: Partners presented updates on the progress of activities and the main outputs achieved to date.
- Focus on Operationalization: Discussions centered around the application of data, tools, and methods at both EU and local levels.
- Plan for Next Steps: Detailed action plans were developed for the next six months, including strategies for replicating and disseminating results.
- Enhance Collaboration: Efforts were made to strengthen interlinkages across work packages to ensure effective coordination and integration of activities.
Challenges and Achievements
The consortium acknowledged the significant progress made since the project’s inception while recognizing the challenges that lie ahead. Over the next two years, partners will continue to tackle complex issues, aiming to refine tools and expand datasets to meet the project’s ambitious goals.
Annual Knowledge Exchange Meeting
The day concluded with the Annual Knowledge Exchange Meeting, which provided a platform for sharing expertise, insights, and ideas. This session fostered dialogue among participants, enriching the project’s approach to addressing rural development challenges.
Looking Ahead
As GRANULAR moves forward, its outputs will provide policymakers and stakeholders with actionable insights to shape the future of Europe’s rural areas. By leveraging data and innovative tools, the project seeks to empower local communities and create solutions that reflect their diverse realities.
Stay updated on GRANULAR’s journey as it continues to generate transformative results for rural areas across Europe. For more information, visit our website or follow our updates on social media.