In April, Valmiera and Cēsis hosted partners from seven European countries during the international Interreg Europe project “Digital Rural” meeting, where participants exchanged experiences on how digital solutions can strengthen public services, support businesses and improve everyday life in rural regions. The visit highlighted Vidzeme’s practical approach to digital transformation, focusing on solutions tailored to regional needs rather than large-scale urban models.
During the meeting, international partners explored examples of digital innovation in Vidzeme, including the work of the European Digital Innovation Centre (EDIC), the Cēsis Digital Centre and Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences’ VR-Lab. Discussions emphasized that successful digital transformation starts with digital skills, targeted support and gradual implementation adapted to local communities.
Special attention was also given to the dissemination of the Interreg Central Baltic project Ce4Re, which promotes circular solutions for the restaurant sector. Partners were introduced to digital tools developed within the project to help restaurants reduce food waste, monitor resource consumption and create more sustainable menu planning practices. The examples demonstrated how digital technologies can support both environmental sustainability and business efficiency in the hospitality sector.
The meeting confirmed that rural regions can become important drivers of innovation by combining digital skills, data-driven solutions and cross-sector cooperation to address local challenges in practical and sustainable ways.
