Mapping for Change

RURALISE is a European project working to support affordable, inclusive and sustainable housing in rural communities. Across six pilot regions in Bulgaria, Finland, Greece, Ireland, Italy and Norway, the project brings together housing evidence and local knowledge to develop practical, place-based solutions.

Problem definition

Many rural areas are experiencing population decline and ageing, alongside vacant or deteriorating housing. In some places, a high number of second homes adds pressure to housing costs, while vulnerable residents may lack the support they need. At the same time, rural communities have distinctive social, cultural and natural strengths that can help drive a sustainable recovery. Building on these strengths calls for responses that reflect local needs and make the most of each community’s assets.

Our role

Mapping for Change leads the project’s participatory work. We support inclusive engagement across the six pilots and help establish Learning and Action Alliances, bringing local stakeholders together to understand challenges, share knowledge and work towards solutions.

We also help develop and refine Ruralise’s co-design approach, connecting community knowledge and project evidence with the development of pilot plans. This supports learning between the pilot regions and helps ensure that proposed responses reflect local priorities.

Partners

Ruralise is funded under Horizon Europe under Grant agreement n°101288580 and is led at the European level by the Institute for European Energy and Climate Policy. The project brings together partners from across Europe to work with six rural pilot regions in Bulgaria, Finland, Greece, Ireland, Italy and Norway.