On Saturday, February 22, nearly 40 participants—both in person and virtually—gathered for an intensive working session at the Salon-Theater of Quintanar de la Sierra. The objective was to develop the actions and missions of the Rural Lab, which began operations last December. The initiative aims to drive innovative social, economic, and environmental projects that strengthen rural communities in the Pinares Burgos-Soria ecosystem. Additionally, it seeks to create synergies, establish partnerships, and develop collaborative networks while allowing for the replication of some initiatives in other rural areas within the region.
The meeting focused on refining the methodology of the Pinares Burgos-Soria Rural Lab, structuring working groups, systematizing the presentation of innovative initiatives, and transforming multi-stakeholder ideas into viable, socially impactful, and innovative projects. Each working group, composed of initiative promoters, is supported by a team of mentors who guide entrepreneurs through the development process. Additionally, a network of expert advisors is incorporated into the working groups to help overcome specific challenges and propose optimal solutions for advancing innovation.
The Rural Lab Pinares working groups have already launched 28 initiatives, each evolving into innovative, social, environmental, economic, and inclusive projects. These initiatives address key issues identified through a prior diagnostic study conducted in collaboration with local entities, institutions, and community stakeholders. The five working groups are structured around specific thematic areas, while also maintaining strong cross-sector collaboration within the Rural Lab. These groups are Economy and Entrepreneurship; Environment, Sustainability, Nature, and Digitalization; Culture, Education, and Leisure; Health, Well-being, and Community; and Tourism, Hospitality, and Services.
The meeting in Quintanar de la Sierra also marked the creative launch of the ESIRA Project’s Community of Practice. This forum is intended to facilitate knowledge sharing among professionals, scientists, social leaders, business representatives, institutions, and cultural entities.
The second part of the session featured a participatory workshop designed to foster co-creation among the various working groups. Each group met separately to analyze their respective initiatives and assess their impact, aiming to develop collective solutions to community challenges. The session provided a space for generating new ideas to inspire future social initiatives, and participants shared insights across thematic areas to enrich their respective projects.
The next event for the ESIRA Pilot Project in Pinares Burgos-Soria is scheduled for Saturday, March 22, in the village of Huerta de Rey. The event will take place from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the local theater hall and will focus on exploring different financing methods for rural development projects, procedures for establishing energy communities, economic benefits available through emissions trading markets, and the opportunities the ESIRA Project offers to foster innovation in the Pinares Burgos-Soria region.
