SHAPING THE FUTURE TOGETHER: SECOND REGIONAL CONVERSATION AT TPV
On March 6th, 2025, the second regional conversation within the framework of the "Vorzeigeregion 2030" project took place at the tpv Technology Park Villach. Numerous participants took the opportunity to share their ideas and visions for a sustainable and innovative future for the region.
The central question of the second regional conversation of the LEADER project "Vorzeigeregion 2030" (“Exemplary Region 2030”) was how the Villach region might look in the future. Citizens, experts, and regional developers discussed sustainable economic models, innovation promotion, and the region's role in global change.
A special impulse came from Prof. Dr. René Schmidpeter (FH Bern), who, in his guest lecture, highlighted the global challenges and opportunities of sustainable economic models.
The discussions of the evening provided valuable impulses for further planning. Participants developed numerous ideas on topics such as the region as an economic space, a mobility hub, and an innovative cooperation area. These ideas will now be further developed in a planning workshop with municipal representatives to create concrete measures for the Villach region. All citizens are still invited to contribute their ideas to the digital idea map.
THE PROJECT "VORZEIGEREGION 2030"
The LEADER project "Vorzeigeregion 2030 City_Villach_Umland" brings together 17 municipalities with a common goal: develop the region while priotizing sustainability, strengthen cohesion, and enhance attractiveness through innovative economic and mobility solutions. Citizen participation and intermunicipal cooperation are at the heart of the project. The EU-funded project started in the fall of 2024 and will run for three years.
UPCOMING REGIONAL CONVERSATIONS 2025
In 2025, the integrated regional development process (IREP_VU) will continue. The following regional conversations are planned for this year:
- 3rd Regional Conversation on May 7th, 2025: "Living and Cultural Space, and Sustainable Region" (location still to be confirmed)
- 4th Regional Conversation on June 4th, 2025: "Tourism and Recreation Space" at the Arnoldstein Monastery Ruins
Through continuous exchange and active citizen participation, the Villach region is steadily evolving into the model region of the future.