Producers in Scotland saw the opportunity to link together their activities to encourage greater visitor numbers to rural destinations by creating a network of artisan chocolatiers.
Projects & Practice
The model of the Rural Parliament is one which has grown across Europe. Scotland has adopted the model, following the example of others such as Sweden, Finland and Estonia.
Scotland’s RDP has adopted simplified administration systems that include a ‘two-tier’ application process for RDP grants. This was introduced to provide proportionate ‘fast-track’ procedures for projects requiring smaller amounts of RDP funding.

Expanding a viticulture business to meet market demand by investing in modern and efficient equipment.

unique military fortress complex, listed as the national cultural monument, was turned into an attractive recreational and relaxation centre Kortina.

A small potato-growing farm used RDP support to purchase a new processing line to enhance its economic performance.

Support from the rural development programme was used to establish an innovative production of GMO-free soybean oil products of superior quality.

Investing into new machinery for applying liquid fertilizers on crop production in order to protect ground and surface waters.

A Slovakian cultural centre used EAFRD support to develop and promote a regional brand to improve sales of local artisanal products.

Slovak cultural association Microregion Juzne Sitno used EAFRD support to organise courses in ceramic production and wool processing, reviving a local tradition.