Now halfway through my six-month journey with the EGTC GO, I find myself reflecting on the richness of this experience. In my third month, I am deeply immersed in supporting the Small Projects Fund (SPF), a cornerstone initiative of the Interreg VI-A Italy-Slovenia program.
The SPF project, a cornerstone of EGTC GO, aims to support small-scale projects with a “bottom-up” approach. These projects are designed to strengthen the role of culture and sustainable tourism in economic development, social inclusion and social innovation.
My role is critical in preparing the tools needed to kick off the first 27 SPF projects. Each project embodies a unique collaboration between Italian and Slovenian partners, spanning areas ranging from culture (music, theater, cinema), sustainable and green tourism, religion, education, and youth engagement. By early 2024, many of these projects will be ready to begin their activities, marking a significant milestone in cross-border cooperation.
This experience is enriching me significantly, giving me a deeper understanding of the true value and meaning of cooperation. Being part of such a dynamic environment has allowed me to learn about EU cohesion policy in action, to see how it facilitates regional development and promotes unity across borders.
As I continue my journey with EGTC GO, I am excited to see the impact of our work and the lasting contribution we are making to the cross-border community. This experience is not just about professional development; it is about being part of something bigger, a testament to the power of collaboration and shared goals in shaping a better, more cohesive Europe.
– Svetlana D.V., IVY Project Partner for the Interreg Italy – Slovenia project “SPF GO! 2025”, at European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation EGTC GO
