The Teruel Chamber of Commerce presented its business succession model for rural areas at the Eurochambres Congress 2026, held on September 28 and 29 in Valencia. The Teruel-based institution presented the European network of Chambers with an initiative aimed at preventing businesses in smaller municipalities from closing due to a lack of successors.
Teruel Chamber brings rural business succession to Eurochambres Congress 2026
The congress brought together representatives of Chambers of Commerce from 38 European countries, with delegates from 91 European Chambers taking part. Teruel Chamber was the only Spanish Chamber, alongside host Valencia Chamber of Commerce, to present its own case study during the event.
Under the theme “Innovation, Cooperation and Growth for Europe”, the forum addressed issues including the future of the single market, energy security, artificial intelligence for businesses, sustainable competitiveness, international trade, talent and training. It also examined the evolving role of Chambers of Commerce in a complex economic and geopolitical environment.
The program combined plenary sessions, thematic tracks and collaborative workshops. European reindustrialization and the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises amid the green and digital transitions were among the key topics of debate, with a focus on exchanging experiences among Chambers.
The business succession model aims to sustain businesses and services in Teruel municipalities
Teruel Chamber’s presentation formed part of the Sustainable Competitiveness track and was delivered by Sara Bianchi, a specialist in Trade, Territorial Development and European Programs. The presentation explained how business succession can help preserve economic activity and services in rural areas.
The model developed in the province begins by identifying businesses at risk of being unable to find a successor. Based on that assessment, it provides support measures and links with potential entrepreneurs to facilitate business continuity.
The initiative draws on analyses conducted jointly with the Provincial Council of Teruel, which have helped map the business landscape in smaller municipalities and identify establishments at risk of closing because of a lack of generational or business succession.
The presentation also outlined Teruel Chamber’s collaboration with the Government of Aragon through its business succession program. Participation in Valencia provides an opportunity to share the experience with the European network, learn about other initiatives and explore avenues for cooperation to strengthen support for businesses.
