Ruralizable, the leading initiative to promote entrepreneurship in rural Spain, has appointed journalist and sociologist Manuel Campo Vidal as Honorary Godfather in recognition of his commitment to sustainable development and the future of rural areas in our country. The initiative is now launching the fourth call of its free programme to accelerate projects with an impact in rural areas, once again receiving support from Redeia.

'We need to end the negative chapter and forget about the ideas of empty and drained Spain. There are problems, but there are also elements to support a reasonable recovery, at least for part of the territory,' said Campo Vidal during the presentation event for the fourth call. This time, the event was held in Madrid at the Triple Ferraz space, which was attended by entrepreneurs, investors, and experts from the rural and technology sectors.

After expressing his support and solidarity for those affected by the DANA, Manuel Campo Vidal emphasised the urgent need to invest in rural areas as a strategy for innovation and sustainability. His appointment as Honorary Godfather confirms the value of Ruralizable as a benchmark in promoting solutions that address the needs of empty Spain. 'Entrepreneurs are the hope for recovering a vibrant rural Spain,' concluded the communicator.

Open call: an accessible, transformative programme for rural entrepreneurs

The 2024-2025 call is now open. Entrepreneurs from any sector can apply through the official Ruralizable website until 15 January 2025. Once the applications are received, the Ruralizable team will select the initiatives or projects that meet the requirements of the call, specifically those designed to have a direct, positive impact in rural areas. All qualifying projects will be allowed to enter the programme subject to the availability of mentors in the call. Therefore, Ruralizable is calling for more companies and stakeholders to take part as collaborators in the initiative by providing mentors.

The acceleration programme, which is 100% online and cost-free for participants, offers selected projects intensive and personalised training that includes:

• Mentoring by industry experts: individualised support to help each project refine its strategy and maximise its impact.
• Continuous advice and monitoring: a focus on sustainable growth, with metrics and follow-up tailored to the needs of each initiative.
• Exclusive access to key entrepreneurship events: direct connection to impact and innovation networks in Spain.

The programme is designed to be compatible with entrepreneurs’ usual activities, removing geographical barriers by being entirely online. This flexibility allows participants to benefit from a rigorous and comprehensive training experience, regardless of their location nationwide.

Boosting innovation and social impact in rural Spain

The purpose of Ruralizable goes beyond simply accelerating projects; it aims to make a tangible and lasting change in rural communities. The selected projects will not only receive support but will also become part of a collaborative network committed to rural revitalisation and sustainable development.

'We are on the lookout for ideas that are not only innovative but also have a direct, positive impact on rural areas,' emphasised Sara González, CMO of Ruralizable. 'We are convinced that talent and creativity can be a driving force for change in the most underprivileged areas of our empty Spain.'

For more information and details about the application process, entrepreneurs can visit the official Ruralizable website at http://www.ruralizable.org.