Inovland 4.0.

InovTerra – Association for Local Development is a non-profit youth association, based in Vila Pouca de Salzedas, municipality of Tarouca. Created in January 2012, this association was born out of the need to reverse the trend of abandonment of rural areas, seeking to raise awareness among populations about “economic power” and added value they hold in their hands, building the solution to combat the crisis through the development of the environment rural and green economy.
On the other hand, the basis of action of this association is found in the valorization of the Earth’s resources and all the natural resources that surround us, as great potential to develop rural areas and, by innovating, attract young people to these areas. That being said, InovTerra has outlined a set of objectives that have guided its activity since its creation:

• Promote rural areas with the aim of repopulating, settling and rejuvenating peasant populations;
• Promote sustainable development and socio-economic dynamism through the creation of jobs;
• Revitalize and promote local heritage and activities, valuing green, cultural and religious tourism;
• Provide rural areas with useful services for the community through technical assistance and provision of agricultural consultancy;
• Promote the return of interest in agriculture.

The social issue at hand revolves around the dearth of opportunities for young individuals residing in rural areas, which severely hampers their personal, social, economic, and cultural development. This identified problem cascades into a series of repercussions and hurdles that demand urgent resolution. Primarily, it leads to the depopulation of interior regions as the youthful population, devoid of prospects, seeks greener pastures elsewhere. Consequently, this exodus weakens the economic vitality of these territories, eroding the business landscape, diminishing job prospects, and impeding the active participation of young people in societal affairs.
This project sets out to tackle the aforementioned challenges head-on by facilitating direct engagement between young individuals and rural communities grappling with these issues. By offering hands-on experience coupled with critical reflection on topics directly or indirectly linked to rural youth, this project empowers young people to become catalysts for personal, social, and local change. Through active participation, they become agents of positive transformation within their communities, laying the groundwork for a more vibrant and inclusive rural landscape.

Training course if for yout workers, leaders, teachers, educators, volunteers, and everybody who is interested in the topic, want to travel, learn and meet new people and cultures from the age of 18+.