With the aim of strengthening sustainable development and connecting local communities, representatives of Zaklada Zora recently participated in a study visit to Italy, visiting the cities of Castelfranco Veneto, Bolzano, and Trento. This study visit, organized through the i3.0 Strategic Partnership, combined topics of innovation, technology, and social inclusion, offering an opportunity to meet pioneers who are already driving change at the European level.
The goal of the trip was to identify innovative practices and apply them to the activities of the i3.0 Strategic Partnership, making local communities stronger and more sustainable. Here's a look at the journey that brought the representatives of the Foundation a wealth of inspiration and determination to pursue even bolder projects in Karlovac County, Croatia, and beyond.
Castelfranco Veneto: Urban Visions and the Start of the Journey
The journey began in Castelfranco Veneto, a picturesque town where every building told a story of both history and the future. We learned about the VARCITIES project, which focuses on urban development with an emphasis on citizens' well-being through green spaces and ecological technologies. During the tour, presentations, and discussions, we gained insights into ideas like the Vision Garden project, which serves as a tool for collaboratively shaping the future.
Bolzano: Innovations for the Community
The journey continued north to Bolzano, where participants immersed themselves in the world of high technology at the EURAC Research center and the NOI Techpark. The main topics were circular economy and sustainable agriculture, with a special focus on the concept of the "FarmFluencer" project, encouraging local farmers to use sustainable techniques and resources. In Bolzano, where every laboratory tells its own story, Zaklada Zora found inspiration to bridge innovations and the real needs of the community.
Through a visit to the farm Solos Acquacoltur, participants gained insight into sustainable food and energy production systems that could be implemented in Croatia, making the local community more resilient and self-sufficient. Participants also took the opportunity to network and connect with researchers who share the same vision of the circular economy – a future where nothing is wasted, and everything is returned to the system.
Trento: The Power of Social Economy
The final stage of the study trip took us to Trento, a city known for its advanced models of social economy. Meetings with representatives of the Province of Trento and organizations like Consolida and the Center for Solidarity Economy revealed how sustainability in this region is not just a concept but a way of life. Discussions covered topics such as labor inclusion, strengthening local cooperatives, and solidarity, while participants had the opportunity to learn about projects like Horizon Europe, which combines digital and social innovations for rural development.
One of the highlights of the trip was the visit to the Fondazione Bruno Kessler Center, where participants learned about projects such as SMART ERA and NEVERMORE, focused on modeling climate change and its impact on tourism. These projects confirmed that sustainability is not a luxury but a necessity, and the participants left with the determination to apply these insights to their activities.
Study trip: Special thanks to our partners
This study trip would not have been as successful without the excellent organization of EURAC Research and the warm hospitality of all the partners who hosted us during our stay. We thank everyone for their helpfulness and support, as well as our partners from the i3.0 Strategic Partnership for the fantastic exchange of ideas and unforgettable socializing. Networking, inspiration, and a shared vision for the future made this visit an important step for the further growth of the Zora Foudation, and we believe for the development of sustainable local communities in Croatia.
Inspiration for the Future
This intensive visit to Italian regions was a true lesson in sustainable development, technological innovations, and social economy. Through discussions with European partners and leaders, members of the Zora Foundation gained new insights and ideas aimed at strengthening local communities in Croatia.
