The Start in Mountains (SIM) project officially kicked off on 26–27 May in Brussels, launching an ambitious five-year initiative (2025–2029) co-funded by the European Union through Interreg Europe. SIM aims to strengthen local innovation ecosystems and foster startup-driven growth in Europe’s mountainous rural regions.

Mountainous rural areas (MRAs) represent nearly 30% of EU territory and are home to 13% of its population. Yet, many of these regions face declining populations, inadequate service, and stagnant local economies. Start in Mountains is all about responding to the challenge by empowering these areas to become engines of innovation and entrepreneurship through the “Startup Village” model, revitalizing small towns by creating environments where entrepreneurship and innovation can thrive.

Why Start in Mountains? Mountainous rural areas are often remote and sparsely populated, with limited infrastructure and support systems. These conditions call for tailored policies that create fertile ground for startups and small enterprises. Supporting dynamic, diversified local economies is essential to make these regions more attractive and resilient in the long term.

Led by the Province of Teruel (Spain) and supported by advisory partner Euromontana, Start in Mountains brings together a diverse partnership of 8 organisations from across Europe.

Start in Mountains is more than a project—it’s a commitment to building a future for our mountain communities through shared knowledge, cooperation, and smart development

Laura Gascon Herrero, President of Euromontana

Seven regional and local authorities will work with their stakeholders to co-develop more inclusive and effective policies that support entrepreneurship in MRAs, helping reverse rural decline and spark economic renewal. Euromontana is one of the 8 partners involved in the project, reaffirming our strong commitment to rural innovation.