Pilots

• ---

  Connecting Communities for Housing and Social Well-being in Communauté de communes du Guillestrois et du Queyras, France

  This pilot solution addresses the dual challenges of housing shortages and social isolation. It creates two interconnected networks: one brings together housing professionals and homeowners to unlock rental opportunities and boost economic vitality through matchmaking events.
  
  The other builds a community support system for the elderly and the most vulnerable people in the area (homeless people, people with health issues, etc.). Through a digital platform connecting various community professionals (local representatives, social services, associations, volunteers, etc.), the idea is to build an attentive and responsive community to prevent situations of social isolation. Both initiatives aim to make the territory more attractive and resilient by fostering stronger community bonds and addressing critical service gaps.
  
  What are the success factors?
  Success hinges on a highly collaborative, co-development approach. Engaging a diverse range of stakeholders—from public officials and real estate agents to secondary homeowners, the elderly, and young volunteers—is crucial. The solution’s design directly addresses clearly identified local needs, such as the high rate of vacant secondary residences and demographic aging. By building on existing community assets and fostering direct communication, the initiative ensures that the developed solutions are relevant, supported, and sustainable.
  
  How it can be replicated
  The model is highly replicable in territories facing similar housing and demographic pressures. The key is to first map specific local challenges and then build targeted networks of relevant actors to co-design solutions. This approach was tested in the LTA/FTA pairing between the Communauté des communes des Baronnies en Drôme Provençale (LTA) and Guillestrois-Queyras (FTA), demonstrating that the principles of professional matchmaking and community-led support can be adapted to different contexts by sharing good practices and lessons learned through the network.
  
  -
  
  “I really enjoyed being part of this working group and sharing some great memories together, while advancing two key issues in our community: housing and support to the most vulnerable.”
  

  -A local elected representative

• ---

  Connecting a Rural Territory: A Digital Hub for Services in Communauté de Communes des Baronnies en Drôme Provençale, France

  This pilot addresses the challenges of a vast, sparsely populated territory by creating a central information hub for essential services. The solution has two pillars: a partly digital Mobility Center that consolidates all public and collaborative transport options (buses, carpooling), and a Digital Mapping System that increases the visibility of health and other public service providers. This integrated approach makes it easier for residents, tourists, and workers to access vital information, improving connectivity and overall quality of life across the region.
  
  What are the success factors?
  Success is rooted in a co-development process involving a dedicated Regional Stakeholder Group. The project effectively identifies and consolidates fragmented information from various providers. By targeting a diverse audience—from elderly citizens needing transport to access public services (to access public services (doctors, shops, etc.) to youth accessing public transports to study—the solution is tailored to real-world needs. Strong collaboration between public authorities and service providers is essential for gathering the data needed to make the hub a reliable and comprehensive resource for the entire community. In order to collect data, the population was also engaged hrough a mobility tour to collect data at a sub-level that is not accessible in general databases.
  
  How it can be replicated
  This model is ideal for other rural regions facing similar challenges of fragmented services and large distances. Replication begins with a thorough mapping of existing transport and service providers. A central digital platform can then be created to make this information accessible. In the SmartCommUnity project, the experience of the Communauté des Baronnies (LTA) is shared with the Communauté de Guillestrois-Queyras (FTA). This LTA/FTA exchange provides a clear framework for replicating the process of stakeholder engagement, data consolidation, and tool development.
  
  -
  
  “For us, the question of attractiveness through access to mobility or the developpement of housing solutions is a guarantee that our region will be liveable in the future.”
  

  -A local elected representative

• ---

  Developing citizen participation by training elected officials in Communauté de Communes des Baronnies en Drôme Provençale & Communauté de communes du Guillestrois et du Queyras, France

  One of the observations made between the two pilot territories was the challenge rural elected officials face in developing a structured approach to citizen participation processes. A training tool consisting of MOOCs was therefore developed, using AI to create a training programme tailored to the realities of each territory.
  
  Available at https://communservice.cc/?FormationParticipation
  
  What are the success factors?
  Success hinges on a highly collaborative, co-development approach. Engaging a diverse range of stakeholder success is rooted in a co-development process involving a dedicated Regional Stakeholder Group.  The solution’s design directly addresses clearly local needs identified in a first step of co-design solutions. One other key of success is the role implemented by the partner to facilitate the knowledge and collaboartion between the two TAs (regular meetings, study visits, etc.) and by with the support of experts in participatory approaches.
  
  How it can be replicated
  The model is highly replicable in territories facing similar governance issues. For such a tool to be relevant, it is necessary to clearly identify the demands and needs of the area and adopt a ‘try-and-error’ approach, so that different versions of the tool can be tested within communities by various stakeholders (elected officials, associations, residents) until a widely deployable version is developed.

• ---

  Green Point: A Collaborative Model for Sustainable Food Systems in Pomurje Region, Slovenia

  The Green Point Living Lab transforms the Pomurje region’s largest short food supply chain into a dynamic innovation ecosystem. Using a Multi-Actor Approach, it brings together over 100 farmers, consumers, public authorities, and tech providers to co-create solutions. Local food production, blockchain traceability system and circular business model are tackling critical challenges such as supply chain transparency, food waste and loss reduction, and enhancing food safety, are building more resilient and circular agri-food system for the region., short food supply chains, and traceability systems in creating a more resilient and sustainable food system.
  
  What are the success factors?
  Success is driven by its Living Lab approach, which actively involves a diverse range of stakeholders in the co-creation process. The initiative builds upon the strong foundation of an existing, fully operational food cooperative, providing the scale and trust necessary for piloting new technologies, products and services. A clear focus on solving tangible challenges like food loss and traceability ensures that innovations deliver practical, real-world value. The formal recognition as an registered ENoLL Living Lab provides a structured framework for innovation and collaboration.
  
  How it can be replicated
  The Green Point LL model is replicated through the SmartCommUnity Lighthouse Test Area (LTA) / Follower Test Area (FTA) framework. In this project, the Pomurje Region (LTA) mentors the Podravje Region (FTA). Replication involves transferring knowledge via workshops, identifying the follower region’s specific challenges, and assisting in introduction of digital technologies and LL approach. FTA adapts the multi-stakeholder approach to co-develop solutions tailored to its own unique context, fostering local innovation and sustainable practices.
  
  -
  
  “I see the LL as a vital space where research meets real life — it offers the environment to translate complex scientific findings into everyday language that farmers and consumers can relate to, and just as importantly, it brings their voices back into the research process.”
  

  - Tamara,
  Human Interaction Specialist
  at Green Point Living Lab

• ---

  A Lighthouse for Rural Digitalization: Connecting People to Public Services in Löffingen, Germany

  This pilot solution leverages Löffingen’s advanced position as a Lighthouse Test Area (LTA). Having already implemented a digital strategy and several “smart” projects under the previous SmartVillages initiative, Löffingen’s role is to serve as a blueprint for success. The core activity of Löffingen as a role model community involves a structured knowledge transfer, sharing practical experience in digitization with FollowerTest Areas (FTAs) to accelerate their own smart transitions.
  
  What are the success factors?
  The key success factor is Löffingen’s proven track record and existing assets, including a drafted digital strategy, a citizen app and a citizen car. This provides a credible and practical foundation for the FTAs, who can learn from real-world, tested solutions rather than theoretical models. Success also depends on the structured framework for exchange and knowledge transfer, allowing for the direct transfer of lessons learned. This procedure helps the follower communities to avoid common pitfalls and implement effective strategies more efficiently.
  
  How it can be replicated
  This mentorship model is inherently designed for replication. Any region can adopt it by pairing an advanced municipality with less advanced ones that share similar challenges. In this project, Löffingen (LTA) serves as the role model for the municipalities of Elzach and Winden im Elztal (FTAs). Through targeted knowledge transfer, Löffingen shares its journey and best practices, providing a role model for a clear and supportive pathway for the FTAs to develop and implement their own successful digitization projects.

• ---

  Citizen App for Enhanced Community Life in Elzach, Germany

  This pilot focuses on enhancing community connectivity and accessibility through a diverse suite of digital solutions. The centerpiece is a Citizen App, a user-friendly platform for communication between residents and the city administration. This is complemented by a platform for local associations which is linked to the Citizen App where they can plan and promote their events. Additionally, projects like a series of events for improving digital skills among citizens helped (older) people to get to know and use the internet and digital tools safely. A potential and location analysis for a co-working space in Elzach addressing local businesses and tourism was also conducted. This helped to initiate paving the way for local access to modern working places in a rural region.
  
  What are the success factors?
  The pilot’s strength lies in its multi-faceted approach, which addresses the specific needs of various community groups - from the elderly to remote workers to local associations and tourism.By developing a range of interconnected digital tools, the solution provides practical answers to everyday challenges. Success depends on strong engagement with local government, civil society and entrepreneurs to ensure the tools are user-centric and effectively integrated into the community’s daily life, enhancing communication, accessibility and overall quality of life for all.
  
  How it can be replicated?
  This model is highly replicable for communities seeking to use digital tools to improve public services and citizen engagement. The key is to first identify distinct user groups and their specific needs, then develop a tailored set of solutions. As an FTA, Elzach benefits from the experience of the LTA, Löffingen. A collaborative framework is provided for sharing best practices and adapting successful digitization strategies, ensuring that the development process is efficient and effective.
  
  -
  
  “Digitalization is the most important step for the future that a rural town like Elzach needs to take.”
  

  -Roland Tibi
  Mayor of Elzach

• ---

  The Civic Center for Community and Digital Life in Winden im Elztal, Germany

  The goal is to enhance quality of life, broaden access to knowledge and information, promote local economy/tourism sights, and improve access to digital tools for all  residents. This pilot addresses different needs of its community by creating a forest trail with digital elements for all age groups, with a special focus on children. The forest trail seamlessly integrates physical and digital educational aspects of learning. It acts as an opportunity for different target groups (e.g. children or tourists) to enrich their learning experiences on many different levels.
  This also highlights a synergy effect with the Digital Competencies event series, that was also held for the citizens of Winden im Elztal. This helped that all age groups were empowered to make use of the digital elements of the forest trail. Additionally, local tourism is strengthened as they can promote the new forest trail of their community to the many tourists that visit the Black Forest every year.
  
  What are the success factors?
  The pilot’s success depends on creating various services that serve diverse community needs. By combining physical infrastructure with a range of events and tools, the solution provides comprehensive support for different groups, including older adults, tourists, and young people. The active involvement of local government representatives, entrepreneurs, and civil society is crucial for ensuring that the services offered are relevant and effectively implemented, fostering a stronger, more connected, and digitally adept community.
  
  How it can be replicated
  These implementations are highly replicable in other rural areas seeking to widen their services and improve digital access. The first step is to identify key community needs and then develop ideas supported by a tailored set of (digital) tools and events. This implementation projects provide a practical roadmap for starting a digital ecosystem in a structured and sustainable way.

• ---

  A Sensor Infrastructure for Smarter Community Management in Lienzer Talboden, East Tyrol, Austria

  This pilot solution establishes a regional LoRaWAN sensor network to collect and visualize real-time data from community buildings across 15 municipalities. By gathering crucial information on factors such as energy usage and environmental conditions, the network provides municipal decision-makers with a robust, data-driven foundation for action. This enables a more cost-efficient and effective smart transition, allowing leaders to manage public resources and services with greater precision and foresight, directly addressing the region’s need for modern development.
  
  What are the success factors?
  The primary success factor is the strong collaboration among the numerous municipalities involved, guided by a shared goal of enhancing smart governance. By establishing a unified data collection infrastructure, the project creates a common operational picture for the entire remote region. Success also depends on the selection of appropriate, scalable technology (LoRaWAN) and a clear focus on producing actionable data. This provides mayors and public employees with evidence-based insights, fostering trust in the system and driving data-informed policy.
  
  How it can be replicated
  This data-driven governance model is highly replicable in any group of municipalities seeking to improve decision-making through shared infrastructure. The approach can be scaled by first identifying common regional challenges and then deploying a sensor network to collect relevant data. While this pilot did not have a pre-defined LTA/FTA pair, it serves as an excellent LTA model itself. It could be paired with a follower region to transfer knowledge on network setup, data management protocols, and the use of analytics for cost-efficient public service management.

• ---

  Building Climate Resilience Through a Regional Network in KLAR! Regions in Lower Austria, Austria

  This pilot addresses the pressing challenges of climate change by strengthening the existing KLAR! (Climate Change Adaptation Model Regions) Network. The solution focuses on equipping communities with the knowledge and tools to cope with heatwaves, heavy rainfall, and water shortages. Activities include a comprehensive communication strategy with regular newsletters, best practice guides, and explainer videos. The core goal is to consolidate existing climate adaptation content into a single, accessible web platform, empowering citizens and municipalities to take informed action.
  
  What are the success factors?
  The pilot’s strength lies in its ability to leverage the established and trusted KLAR! Network. By engaging local government officials, businesses, and community organizations, it ensures that the solutions are relevant and directly address the diverse impacts of climate change on agriculture, biodiversity, and daily life. The creation of practical, easy-to-understand resources like “Climate-Fit” action guides and explainer videos makes complex information accessible to a broad audience, fostering widespread awareness and motivating community-led adaptation projects.
  
  How it can be replicated
  This regional network model is highly replicable for any area looking to coordinate a unified response to climate change. The key is to establish a central platform for sharing best practices and to facilitate regular communication between different communities. Within the project, the KLAR! Regions function as an interconnected LTA/FTA system, where more advanced regions mentor others through regular meetings and shared reports. This structured exchange allows for the rapid dissemination and adaptation of successful climate resilience strategies across the entire territory.
  
  -
  
  “Thanks to the project, we were able to develop smart adaptation measures for rural areas in all of my municipalities – in close cooperation with local representatives and the population.”
  

  -Elisabeth Höbartner-Gußl
  Regional Manager (LTA KLAR! Waldviertler Kernland)

• ---

  Strengthening Alpine Identity Through Digital Innovation in Gran Paradiso National Park, Autonomous Region of Valle d’Aosta, Italy

  In the Gran Paradiso National Park, the SmartCommUnity pilot features “La SIBILLA del Gran Paradiso”, a generative AI Digital Human designed by Fondation Grand Paradis to enhance visitor experience. Speaking naturally with voice and text, the AI system offers multilingual information enriched with multimedia content—available anytime. Inspired by mythical sibyls, this virtual guide combines cutting-edge technology with a human-like presence, inviting visitors to explore the park through an engaging and interactive dialogue.
  In the Mont Avic Natural Park, a follower area in Valle d’Aosta, a virtual reality system was developed to enhance accessibility, building on the work already carried out in the Gran Paradiso lighthouse area. Through an immersive 360° VR experience, users can explore the scenic beauty of Mont Avic and access detailed information via enriched multimedia content.
  
  What are the success factors?
  The success of the pilot lies in its ability to blend digital innovation with a deep respect for local identity, nature, and culture. Central to this achievement was the strong partnership between the Autonomous Region of Valle d’Aosta and Fondation Grand Paradis, which combined strategic oversight with deep territorial knowledge and long-standing experience in EU cooperation projects. The structured involvement of a broad Regional Stakeholder Group—including municipal representatives, park authorities and local action groups—ensured that the process remained rooted in the community. The bottom-up approach adopted included participatory mapping of needs and a shared prioritization of interventions. The integration of immersive VR experiences and the first experimentation of generative AI in tourism proved particularly effective, demonstrating how cutting-edge tools can be harnessed to strengthen community pride, attract new audiences, and promote environmental stewardship.
  
  How it can be replicated
  This pilot offers a clear and adaptable model for other Alpine or rural regions seeking to embrace digital transition while reinforcing local values. The key is to first identify the unique heritage and challenges of the area and then co-create a set of complementary digital solutions. Digital technologies such as VR and AI can be successful when they are closely tied to the specific cultural and environmental features of a place—whether through immersive storytelling in heritage sites or AI-assisted visitor services in national parks. The Lighthouse–Follower Test Area pairing, exemplified by the Gran Paradiso and Mont Avic parks, further enhances replicability: it creates an internal transfer mechanism where more advanced areas guide others through shared tools and facilitation strategies. This model can be scaled and tailored to fit a variety of local contexts, ensuring that innovation does not override territorial distinctiveness, but rather amplifies it.
  
  -
  
  “The Sibyl of Gran Paradiso aims to be an example of what human intelligence can do to multiply itself, offering a sense of the enormous opportunity that the AI revolution is giving us. It is a tool for empowerment, capable of expanding our knowledge, helping us rediscover the value of questions, cultivating the art of critical thinking, and recognizing the beauty of shared and accessible knowledge.”
  

  -Luisa Vuillermoz
  Director of Fondation Grand Paradis

• ---

  Gamified Job Orientation for Green Careers in Fontanabuona Valley & Cogorno, Liguria, Italy

  The SMART LAB is an innovative orientation system designed to guide secondary school students toward technical careers in environmental sustainability. Hosted at the “Water Portal,” a new eco-sustainable hub in Cogorno, the pilot uses gamification, virtual reality, and augmented reality to create immersive educational experiences. This engaging approach helps prevent school dropout, supports students in choosing “tailor-made” training paths, and aligns their skills with the needs of the local labor market, particularly in the carpentry, slate, and agri-food sectors.
  
  What are the success factors?
  Success is built on the strong partnership between the Villaggio del Ragazzo training center and schools throughout the valley. The use of innovative technologies like gamification is crucial for capturing the interest of young students, making career exploration an interactive and engaging process. The dedicated “Water Portal” hub provides an ideal physical space for these activities, while the co-creation of the tools with stakeholders ensures the program is directly relevant to both student aspirations and regional economic needs.
  
  How it can be replicated
  This model is highly replicable for connecting a central training provider with a wider network of schools. The Municipality of Cogorno (LTA) acts as the hub, developing the SMART LAB tools and hosting activities. The model is then extended to students across the Fontanabuona Valley (FTA), the designated follower area. Replication involves identifying a central partner, co-designing gamified content with local schools, and establishing a physical or digital hub to bridge the gap between education and industry.
  
  -
  
  “Gamified Job Orientation for Green Career is an innovative way to encourage young people not to leave their territory, but, on the contrary, to launch a challenge to make it even more attractive and friendly  for new families”
  

  -Gino Garibaldi
  Mayor of the Municipality of Cogorno

• ---

  Revitalizing Village Life: Smart Mobility and Smart Economy in Region Luzern West, Canton of Lucerne, Switzerland

  This pilot solution addresses the dual challenges of tourist-driven traffic congestion and the economic decline of village centers. The approach is centered on organizing two distinct series of workshops. The first set focuses on co-designing smart mobility solutions for the Napfbergland area to better manage tourist flows and provide sustainable transport options for locals. The second set targets all 27 communities in the Region Luzern West, aiming to develop innovative strategies for a smarter economy, with a particular focus on reviving empty stores and revitalizing village centers.
  
  What are the success factors?
  The pilot’s success is built on a highly participatory model that brings together local populations, tourists, and the regional stakeholder group (“Arbeitsgruppe Verkehr”). By focusing on clearly defined challenges—mobility and economic revitalization—the workshops can generate practical, community-driven solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of the region. This collaborative process ensures strong local buy-in and leads to the development of concrete, actionable projects that address both environmental pressures and economic opportunities.
  
  How it can be replicated
  This workshop-based approach to problem-solving is easily replicable in other regions facing similar issues. The key is to clearly separate thematic challenges and engage the relevant communities and stakeholders in targeted co-creation sessions. The LTA/FTA pairing is structured with the smaller, more tourist-focused Napfbergland area acting as a Lighthouse Test Area for mobility, sharing its findings with the broader 27 communities of the Region Luzern West (FTA), which then adapt these lessons to foster wider economic and social revitalization.