SFERA Open Day for rural SMEs held in Gospić, Croatia
18/12/2024
On December 12th, the Development Center of Lika-Senj County hosted an Open Day organized by LAG Lika, bringing together rural entrepreneurs from Croatia and Italy to strengthen collaboration, exchange ideas, and create new business opportunities.
Participants included winemakers, olive growers, cheese producers, hospitality providers, and representatives of crafts and agricultural businesses from the Apulia region in Italy and the Lika-Senj County in Croatia. The event provided a platform for networking, sharing experiences, and discussing potential collaborations.
Highlights of the Event:
- Zera Souvenir Shop, Gospić:
Showcased as a model of successfully promoting local heritage and supporting small producers. The shop offers 98% handcrafted products, many certified with the Lika Quality label, ensuring authenticity and quality.
- Ličanka Brewery, Donje Pazarište:
Renowned for producing beer with only four natural ingredients—local spring water, hops, barley, and yeast—without additives or preservatives. Employing 16 workers, the brewery is noted for its innovation, modernization, and digitalization efforts.
After the visits, participants gathered for a roundtable discussion at the Development Center to analyze insights, share experiences, and explore opportunities for future collaboration. Croatian and Italian entrepreneurs exchanged perspectives on the challenges and opportunities for business development and explored the potential for long-term cross-border partnerships.
The event emphasized the importance of fostering strong connections and working together to enhance the entrepreneurial climate in rural communities.
