Alentejo launches tourism funding and agricultural labor initiatives

The Alentejo region in Portugal is implementing new initiatives to bolster its economy through tourism and agricultural labor management.

Alentejo 2030 has launched a competition offering over 418,000 euros to support the structuring and enhancement of local and sub-regional tourism products. Funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), the program provides up to 85% co-financing for projects aimed at creating sustainable, innovative, and competitive tourism destinations. The initiative seeks to combat seasonality and diversify tourism offerings by supporting new business models aligned with territorial development strategies. Applications are being accepted in successive phases through September 2027.

Simultaneously, the LIMA Alentejo Project, promoted by the Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Beja, is introducing a digital platform to connect farmers with migrant and local workers. Running until December 2027, the project aims to involve 500 migrant workers by providing information on job opportunities, worker skills, and seasonal agricultural needs. The initiative, part of the Gulbenkian Integration Initiative, also includes a Field School offering 250 hours of training in technical skills, Portuguese language, and labor rights to promote organized and transparent employment relations.