We are excited to share the second issue of the DigAccessAgrotourism newsletter, a key communication channel for tracking the progress, milestones, and stories emerging from this ambitious EU-funded project. As DigAccessAgrotourism enters its second year, this issue captures the energy and purpose behind our mission: to support rural tourism enterprises in becoming more digitally equipped, socially inclusive, and accessible to all.

Here’s what you’ll find inside:

1. In conversation with Roberta Trovarelli (Legacoop Emilia-Romagna)
   In this issue’s featured interview, we meet Roberta Trovarelli, a leading voice in cooperative development and international projects at Legacoop Emilia-Romagna. Roberta shares her perspective on the role of social economy organisations in rural tourism, emphasising the need for strategic innovation that combines digital tools with values like inclusion and community empowerment. Her insights offer a valuable look into how Italy, and Emilia-Romagna in particular, is building resilient, accessible tourism ecosystems that serve both people and places. Her message is clear: accessibility is not a cost, but a long-term investment in sustainability, competitiveness, and social justice.
2. The launch of the DigAccessAgrotourism Framework
   One of the project’s most significant milestones so far has been the publication of the Framework for Digital Transition and Accessibility in Agrotourism. Developed through months of field research across Poland, Cyprus, Greece, Italy, and Portugal, the Framework identifies the common challenges and opportunities facing rural SMEs and Enabling Organisations (EOs). It provides a detailed assessment of digital and accessibility gaps, while also presenting good practices, toolkits, and strategic pathways for transformation. Whether it’s introducing inclusive digital content, improving physical access, or rethinking business models, the Framework serves as a comprehensive starting point for digital upskilling and inclusive innovation.
3. Digital tools revolutionising accessibility in agrotourism
   The newsletter also includes an article exploring how digital technologies are transforming access to rural tourism. It highlights real-world tools and approaches: such as virtual reality (VR) tours, accessible website design, automated captioning, and AI-powered communication platforms. These tools are already making a difference for visitors with disabilities. These tools are not just technical fixes; they represent a broader shift in how rural tourism businesses can connect with diverse audiences, provide clear and welcoming information, and differentiate themselves in a competitive market. The message is simple but powerful: accessibility benefits everyone, and digital innovation is the key to unlocking it.
4. Open Call: International Capacity Building for Enabling Organisations
   Finally, this issue launches the first Open Call for Enabling Organisations to apply for participation in the transnational capacity building training to be held in Bologna, Italy, in January 2026. Selected organisations will join a 3-day workshop focused on digital solutions for accessibility, and will become part of a transnational team of Digital Mentors for Accessibility. These mentors will later support rural tourism SMEs in designing and implementing Individual Digital Development Plans (IDDPs). Financial support of up to €1,163 is available per organisation for travel, accommodation, and subsistence costs. The call is open to cooperatives, associations, foundations, mutual benefit societies, and other social economy actors working in the field of rural and agrotourism.

Why this newsletter matters
The DigAccessAgrotourism newsletter is more than a project update; it’s a platform for shared learning, collaboration, and action. Whether you’re a practitioner, policymaker, researcher, or community stakeholder, this issue invites you to get involved, stay informed, and amplify the call for inclusive, digitally enabled tourism in rural Europe.

Read the full newsletter (in English) HERE.

Access the Open Call HERE.