In order to cope with the variety of challenges faced by Europe’s rural areas, caused by global changes and crises such as social, demographic, economic and environmental pressures, renewal through social innovation is needed. The research focus of the SERIGO project is on strengthening social inclusion and the resilience of these areas to minimise the negative impact on their socio-economic and environmental sustainability.

SERIGO produces evidence-based theoretical and practicable knowledge on how the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) can support resilience, social inclusion, and ‘good life’ in European rural areas. Based on the research results produced, the aim is also to provide insights and recommendations on what framework conditions and policy arrangements are necessary to promote this, as well as to trigger constructive debates and collaborations around this issue involving diverse set of stakeholders in Europe.

The SERIGO consortium met in Vienna to initiate the first steps of task implementation and to discuss theoretical assumptions relevant to the project. In addition, a one-day excursion took place to gain insights into practical examples of social innovation and aimed at fostering inclusion and rural resilience. The key objectives of the SERIGO project were addressed in order to obtain an overall picture of the combination of scientific research and practical work with the pilot partners.