Regional Sustainability Influencer Academy (INFLUENCE)
| Title | Regional Sustainability Influencer Academy |
| Abbreviation | INFLUENCE |
| Project number | CB0900558 |
| Programme | The Interreg Central Baltic Programme 2021–2027 |
- Valonia / Regional Council of Southwest Finland (Finland) (lead partner)
- Vidzeme Planning Region (Latvia)
Project objectives
To promote youth civic activity and meaningful participation in sustainability-focused planning processes, and to develop and pilot a replicable model for engaging young people in regional development in Southwest Finland and the Vidzeme region.Activities
- The academy curriculum and selection process will be developed, mentors recruited, and participants selected (15–25 young people per country). In collaboration with educational institutions and other stakeholders, youth motivation and engagement will be fostered.
- Participants will take part in lectures, panel discussions, excursions and workshops on regional development and climate issues, and will gain an understanding of decision-making processes. Future visioning skills will also be developed, and cross-border peer learning encouraged.
- Participants will develop concrete proposals for regional development programmes (such as the Vidzeme Regional Development Programme), and will contribute to planning the implementation of these proposals together with regional developers and decision-makers. The process will conclude with an international experience-exchange event.
- As a result of the project, a replicable and adaptable operational model for the Regional Sustainability Influencer Academy will be developed for use by other regions. The model will be disseminated through events, communication materials and experience sharing.
Results
- The Regional Sustainability Influencer Academy model has been established and implemented in two regions.
- Participants have gained an in-depth understanding of regional challenges and participation opportunities.
- Youth proposals for regional development have been developed and an implementation plan prepared in collaboration with decision-makers.
- An adaptable academy operational model has been prepared and disseminated, available in English, Latvian and Finnish.
Budget
Total budget: 208 542,31 EUR
VPR budget: 82 436,20 EUR (80% funded by the ERDF - 65 948,96 EUR and 20% national contribution - 16 487,24 EUR)
Implementation period
01.04.2026 - 30.09.2027
Contacts
Lienīte Priedāja-Klepere
Phone: +371 26133028
Email: lienite.priedaja@vidzeme.lv
