Final Event for the Presentation of the Project’s Results
The final event presenting the results of the project ENERDECA II – Enhancing European Rural Development Capabilities took place on 17 September 2025 in Kavala, marking the conclusion of a five-year transnational collaboration between Greece, Portugal, Lithuania, and Cyprus.
The meeting constituted a turning point for Creative Tourism in Europe, showcasing the outcomes of ENERDECA II and laying the groundwork for the new initiative CREATING – Creative Tourism Initiatives’ Generation, which is planned for submission under the CAP Strategic Plan 2021–2027.
Objectives of the Event
The event focused on:
- presenting the results of ENERDECA II,
- highlighting Creative Tourism as a strategic pillar for development,
- informing participants about the prospects of the new CREATING project,
- strengthening interterritorial and international cooperation,
- promoting the need for institutional recognition of Creative Tourism.
Participation and Key Attendees
The event brought together representatives from 15 Greek Local Development Agencies, local authorities, cultural and business organisations, as well as international partners from Portugal, Lithuania, and Cyprus.
The meeting was honoured by a recorded address from the Minister of Tourism, Olga Kefalogianni, who emphasised the role of Creative Tourism in reshaping the country’s tourism identity.
Key Presentations and Discussions
Throughout the event, the main deliverables of the project were presented, including:
- resource assessment methodologies,
- guidelines for developing thematic routes,
- experiential creative tourism workshops,
- the international conference held in Pella,
- new digital tools and promotional material.
In parallel, the vision of the CREATING project was introduced, aiming to capitalise on the achievements of ENERDECA II, expand international collaboration, and reinforce the institutional framework recognising Creative Tourism as a distinct development category.
Outcomes of the Event
The meeting contributed significantly to:
- disseminating the results of ENERDECA II at national and European level,
- strengthening dialogue around Creative Tourism,
- maintaining and deepening the partnerships built over the previous years,
- shaping the basis for the continuation of the work through the CREATING project,
- confirming political support for Creative Tourism.
Conclusion
The Closing Event in Kavala highlighted ENERDECA II as a milestone in redefining the relationship between rural areas, cultural creativity, and tourism development. At the same time, it served as the launchpad for a new strategic direction through the CREATING project, which aspires to further enhance European cooperation in the field of Creative Tourism.
In doing so, the project contributes to building a more sustainable, contemporary, and culturally enriched development model for Europe’s rural regions.
