The EREA 2026 Rural Entrepreneurship and Innovation Forum, held in Caspe, gathered over 300 people to highlight the impact of innovative projects in Aragón. This event marked the closing of the fourth edition of the EREA Program, which has promoted over 80 business projects in the region.
Impact of the EREA Program in Aragón
The fourth edition of the EREA Program unfolded over five days in different Aragonese municipalities, attracting more than 1,200 participants. During this period, the program supported 41 companies and facilitated the launch of 42 new initiatives, all driven from various locations in Aragón. This effort aims to revitalize the business fabric in rural areas, promoting sustainable economic development.
Among the projects presented at the forum were initiatives in sectors such as agri-food, health and wellness, culture and craftsmanship, as well as tourism and services. Notable examples include Val Veraz, dedicated to the production of natural wines, and PIKIKA, focused on rural psychology. These projects reflect the diversity and potential for innovation in the rural environment of Aragón.
Participation and Visibility of Established Projects
In addition to new initiatives, the forum served as a platform to showcase established microbusinesses in the area. Companies like Rural Citizen, which works on the development of local and global ecosystems, and Dulces Locuras, known for its customized products for major brands, highlighted their achievements and contributions to the rural environment.
The event featured the participation of experts and key figures from the business and academic fields, such as Manuel Lencero, CEO of Unlimited, and Ángel Paniagua, a researcher at CSIC. Their interventions emphasized the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship as engines of development in rural areas.
Results and Future of the EREA Program
Since its inception, the EREA Program has managed to promote 320 projects and over 140 new business initiatives, training 4,000 people and reaching more than 9,500 citizens. With an investment of 2.7 million euros, more than half has been allocated to the generation of new projects, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable rural development.
The forum concluded with a performance by the Caspe Choir, symbolizing the cultural talent of the area and its role in social cohesion. Additionally, the networking space «The Pulse of the Territory» provided a showcase for local products and a meeting point for the exchange of ideas and projects.
