Rural businesses can be the engines of sustainable development - provided they receive the right support. This is precisely the goal set by SPARK! #2, which was realised with the support of the DigitalTech EDIH programme and as part of the Capacity2Transform pilot project. With the contribution of the mégis kollektíva, the programme offered an innovative, practice-oriented approach for small businesses operating in the cultural and creative industries and tourism.
What is SPARK! #
A SPARK! #2 is a business sprint that supported more than 10 small businesses in Transdanubia with their digital and green transition. The programme focused on developing digital competencies, creating sustainable business models and service design, which participants worked through during intensive meetups and personalised consultations.
The methodology that works
The key to the success of the SPARK! #2 programme was its unique, multi-step approach:
Joint workshop days (meetups)
During the programme's three central workshops, participants delved step-by-step into the following topics:
- Finding Your Why – How to stand out in the market?
Branding and defining the values of the business. The workshop focused on strengthening the entrepreneurial mission and market position. - Sustainability Strategies – The shop of the future
The participants not only examined the aspects of environmental protection, but also how they could develop sustainable business practices that remain competitive in the long term. - Value Proposition Step by Step – Why should they choose you?
The practical steps of customer profile-based service design, which help businesses communicate more precisely how they are unique.
Individual consultations
The three main thematic areas were followed by an intensive, one-month mentoring phase, during which the entrepreneurs received personalised support from experts. During the mentoring:
- Weekly consultations took place.
- Practical solutions the participants worked on refining their business model.
- A mentors, including renowned experts such as József Török and Dénes Nagy, helped provide answers to the participants' specific challenges.
What is new in SPARK! #2?
Community-based development: During the programme, the entrepreneurs not only learnt from the mentors, but also drew inspiration from each other.
Practical focus: Alongside theoretical knowledge, immediately applicable, tailored solutions were created.
Comprehensive approach Sustainability, digitalisation and service design were not separate elements, but mutually reinforcing factors.
Regional cooperation: Businesses from the three LEADER regions (the areas of Zirc, Martonvásár and Velence) were able to work together, thereby further strengthening the region's economic network.
A SPARK! #2 benefits for participants
Gaining a competitive advantage: New business models help you to stand out in the market.
Sustainable operation: Customer trust and market stability can be increased through sustainability strategies.
New relationships and partnerships: The participants built business relationships that create long-term value.
Summary
A SPARK! #2 program has come to an end, but the knowledge and connections gained here will live on in the daily operations of the participating businesses. The programme proved that sustainability and digitalisation are not only challenges, but also huge opportunities for rural SMEs.
The next step? Integrating the acquired experience into future development programmes and launching another SPARK! – so that regional businesses continue to develop and enrich their communities with innovative solutions.