Rural areas face major challenges. An aging population, structural weaknesses, and the need to secure basic services require integrated regional strategies. These form the basis for the EU's LEADER funding for rural areas. EBP successfully supported the Holsteinische Schweiz active region in drawing up its development strategy and is accompanying the implementation process.

The Local Action Group (LAG) AktivRegion Schwentine-Holsteinische Schweiz e.V. is committed to developing the region together with 45 municipalities and the towns of Plön, Eutin, and Preetz, as well as associations, clubs, and citizens. With the Integrated Development Strategy (IES) drawn up in 2014, the region has set itself a mission statement and concrete goals in a broad-based participatory process. Under the slogan “Connecting living spaces – naturally for a sustainable region,” the aim is to support the economy, social cohesion, municipal services, and attractive educational and cultural offerings. Concrete projects are also planned to promote climate protection in this touristically attractive region.  Funding from the 2014–2020 EAFRD funding period will be used for this purpose.

EBP worked closely with the regional management team to formulate the strategy, moderated the development process, and is now supporting its implementation.

Image Source: AktivRegion Schwentine Holsteinische Schweiz