1

Why the project matters

Rural tourism (M)SMEs across the Mediterranean face common barriers such as isolation, poor connectivity, and limited training or market access. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (Report “Tourism And Rural Development: Understanding Challenges On The Ground” 2023), rural areas often suffer from depopulation and skill shortages, despite their cultural richness and tourism potential. Without targeted support, these SMEs struggle to survive and compete in global markets. Addressing these structural challenges is essential to unlock the economic and social potential of rural Mediterranean territories.

2

What it aims to achieve

• To provide rural tourism (M)SMEs with tailored support for internationalisation.
• To implement training programmes and digital tools that boost business capacity.
• To foster lasting cross-border networks and rural tourism clusters.

3

Expected change

• Enhanced competitiveness and resilience of rural tourism (M)SMEs.
• Improved skills, digital capacity, and access to international markets for MSME located in rural areas.
• Stronger cooperation and knowledge exchange across Mediterranean rural areas.

4

What the project delivers

• 50 internationalisation plans tailored to rural (M)SMEs’ needs.
• 50 training micropills and multiple capacity-building sessions.
• A digital toolbox and metaverse platform for promotion and engagement.
• A Mediterranean Experts Alliance Task Force and joint study visits.
• Local and transnational tourism clusters established.
• Participation in international tourism fairs and a rural tourism summit.

5

Who benefits

• 50 tourism (M)SMEs directly supported across 7 countries.
• Local experts and stakeholders engaged in training and networking.
• Tourists experiencing improved and diversified rural offers.
• Broader rural communities benefiting from increased visibility and economic activity.