22 de July de 2025
The CAP Network has received 34 projects, from which it has assessed the 8 that will enter the competition based on the criteria established by Brussels. These criteria include being financed by the CAP through EAFRD or EAGF funds.
The CAP Network has received 34 projects, from which it has assessed the 8 that will enter the competition based on the criteria established by Brussels. These criteria include being financed by the CAP through EAFRD or EAGF funds.
This year's theme focuses on generational renewal projects.
From Galicia to Andalusia, via Castilla-La Mancha and the Basque Country, innovation, sustainability, and generational renewal in rural Spain are shining brightly once again. The CAP Network has selected eight exemplary initiatives to represent Spain at the prestigious 2025 European Rural and Agricultural Inspiration Awards (ARIA) , organized by the European CAP Network . These projects not only transform their territories but also tell unique stories that deserve to be heard across Europe so they can serve as inspiration and replication in other parts of the continent.
This third edition is held under the theme of generational change , which is why the ARIAs this year seek to promote projects that foster the active inclusion of new generations in the agricultural and rural sector.
Applications could only be submitted through the national CAP networks, in this case through the Spanish CAP Network. Projects nominated had to be funded by the CAP through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD). and/or the European Agricultural Agricultural Guarantee Fund (EAGF) .
Finalists will be able to attend the awards ceremony in Brussels, the date of which has yet to be determined. This will serve as a networking opportunity for establishing contacts. The selected projects will also be publicized through the European CAP Network's "Good Practices" portal and through its social media channels.
Selected projects
- Potted Space
Category: Socioeconomic fabric of rural areas
Autonomous Community: Galicia
Funding: EAFRD
“Espazo A Maceta” is a Galician project that has transformed a disused urban space into a vibrant hub for the circular economy, agroecology, and local culture. Its collaborative approach has generated networks between producers, artists, and residents, becoming a model for rural revitalization that can be perfectly scaled to other territories.
Category: Generational change
Autonomous Community: Castilla-La Mancha
Funding: EAGF
This family winemaking project, led by a young farmer, combines tradition and modernity in the production of organic wines. "Raíces Vivas" not only revives native varieties but also promotes young and female entrepreneurship in rural areas.
Category: Socioeconomic fabric of rural areas
Autonomous Community: Valencian Community
Funding: EAGF
Led by a female farmer, this agroecological project promotes food sovereignty, sustainable citrus production, and raising awareness of women's role in agriculture. Its comprehensive approach combines production, processing, and direct sales.
Category: Generational change
Autonomous Community: Andalusia
Funding: EAFRD
An alliance between cooperatives, NGOs, and livestock farmers that promotes training and generational renewal in the dairy sector. The project stands out for its inclusive approach, its commitment to social innovation, and its transferability.
Category: Socioeconomic fabric of rural areas
Autonomous Community: Basque Country
Funding: EAFRD
"Mutur Beltz" works to restore the black-faced Carranzana sheep, a native breed in danger of extinction. Through educational, cultural, and productive activities, the project has forged a network of rural collaboration with a strong local identity.
Category: Competitive and intelligent agriculture
Autonomous Community: Castilla-La Mancha
Funding: EAGF
A young farmer is leading this initiative that combines regenerative practices with a powerful digital communication strategy. "Kimie Fusion" is an example of how young entrepreneurs can revitalize the countryside with creativity and environmental commitment.
Category: Environmental Protection
Autonomous Community: Community of Madrid
Funding: EAGF
Located in the heart of Madrid's Sierra Norte, "El Capriolo" offers a sustainable rural tourism experience that combines environmental education, extensive livestock farming, and activities for all ages. A model of economic diversification with strong regional roots.
Category: Environmental Protection
Autonomous Community: Extremadura
Funding: EAGF
This Extremadura project focuses on a regenerative livestock farming model that improves soil fertility, reduces the carbon footprint, and promotes animal welfare. Its environmental, economic, and social impact makes it a benchmark in rural sustainability.
Categories
The semi-finalists compete in 4 categories :
Competitive and smart agriculture : projects that contribute to a competitive, resilient, and diversified sector that guarantees long-term food security.
Environmental protection : for initiatives that protect biodiversity, address climate resilience, demonstrate sustainability, and/or contribute to a green recovery.
Socioeconomic fabric of rural areas : for projects focused on social innovation in rural communities (inclusion, rural entrepreneurship, innovation) or that digitalize agriculture.
Generational renewal : CAP-funded projects that help ensure the future of rural communities by actively involving young people in decision-making, while creating quality rural jobs.
Shortlisted projects are also eligible to receive two additional awards:
The Popular Vote Award: will be decided by a public online voting system.
The Gender Equality Award: for projects that promote equality in the agricultural and rural sector. All preselected projects that include women as participants in their activities are eligible for the award. The award will be decided by the jury.