Business models for rural services
Briefing describing business services models in Europe’s rural areas
Description
The “Business Model for Rural Services” briefing document explores the different approaches that could be applied to enhance the provision of rural services in the European Union, and describes four such models: the private sector model, the public sector model, the third sector model and the partnership model. The document offers recommendations on the selection of the optimum business model for the provision of rural services along with some sample initiatives. The third sector model is particularly relevant to the agricultural sector, offering examples that include social enterprises run by women’s farmer organizations and those supporting the inclusion of older adults and young people targeting increased household incomes for farms. Among the other models, the private sector model could also be considered applicable to the agricultural sector in its ability to enhance short supply chain initiatives for small food firms.
Technology
Under the private sector model, technologies such as the internet and websites can be used to reinforce multi-service hubs, mobile services and short supply chains, including websites and web applications that promote community events and online courses (for example, YouthBorders, https://youthborders.org.uk/). Within the third sector model, web applications may be used for the provision of advisory services and online training, while the partnership model may benefit from the technological solutions put forward in all the other models.
Target
The target users of the briefing include the private sector, which can learn specifically from the related model; the public sector, which can gain an understanding of how rural services can support integration and reduce inequalities; and civil society organizations, such as community groups, trusts and foundations, which can learn about social initiatives that can support the generation of income within rural communities.
Impact
The selection of an appropriate business model can ease the access of users to relevant information, improve the territorial and spatial planning of rural services, and enhance partnerships and the provision of rural services by the private, public and third sectors.
Four Betters
Better life
