Smart villages in Upplandsbygd

The project aims to strengthen the resilience of smaller rural areas by developing locally adapted and smart strategies for crisis preparedness, sustainability and cooperation. In a time when climate change, societal crises and reduced biodiversity affect local communities, the project wants to give those who live and work in smaller areas the tools to build resilient, vibrant and long-term sustainable villages. The project increases knowledge about how a village can develop a local smart strategy for its development through workshops, training, exchange of experiences and local pilot tests. Rural actors gain stronger skills in digital solutions, local development, sustainability and crisis preparedness. By starting to work on creating networks for small actors, associations and companies, commitment, innovation and new opportunities for local service, economy and participation are promoted.

How clever?

Smart villages create creative solutions to local challenges by using the area's strengths. Residents in rural areas work together for economically, socially and environmentally sustainable development. The smart strategy develops local innovative solutions and explores whether new digital technology can contribute positively to the development of the village. Rural areas become smarter through collaborations and networking, locally with other rural areas and with cities in Upplandsbygd. 

Local and International

The project is implemented in collaboration with two other LEADER associations in Latvia and Lithuania. Through shared expertise in smart rural strategies, an international collaboration is built with a strong focus on learning and shared development. Local leaders are trained in Smart Village strategies, and 18 leaders and stakeholders participate in international study visits to gain new perspectives, contacts and good examples.

By supporting local groups in testing new solutions and creating strategies based on their own conditions, the project strengthens both preventive capacity and local preparedness. The project thus leads to increased resilience where rural areas are better equipped to face the challenges of the future.