SMART ERA program launches second call for rural development projects

The SMART ERA program (Smart community-led transition for Europe's Rural Areas) has launched its second call for applications. The initiative aims to establish four new micro-pilots in designated follower regions to implement solutions for rural social, economic, and environmental development.

Projects are expected to use the SMART ERA methodology to identify local challenges, engage residents in co-designing solutions, and develop new Smart Innovation Packages (SIPs). Funding is available for up to 90,000 EUR for consortia or 60,000 EUR for single beneficiaries. Within a consortium, a Community Activator may receive up to 30,000 EUR, while a Pilot Orchestrator can receive up to 60,000 EUR.

Eligible applicants include legal entities from EU member states and countries associated with the Horizon Europe program. Projects must be located in rural areas within one of four EU macro-regional strategies: the Baltic Sea Region, the Danube Region, the Adriatic-Ionian Region, or the Alpine Region. The application window opens on June 12, 2026, with a deadline of September 15, 2026.