On 13 March 2026, the Second Stakeholder Meeting under the DanubeCrafts project (“The Crafts Route”) was held in Vratsa, organised by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa (CCI Vratsa) within the framework of the Interreg Danube Region Programme (DRP) 2021–2027.
The meeting aimed to deepen the dialogue with local stakeholders and to discuss concrete opportunities for implementing project activities at regional level. It brought together representatives from the public sector, businesses, educational institutions, cultural organisations, and other key actors involved in the development of tourism and crafts in the region.
During the meeting, the progress achieved so far was presented, with a focus on upcoming activities and the role of local partners in their implementation. Discussions centred on identifying concrete opportunities for developing tourism products based on traditional crafts, as well as improving their presentation and promotion.
Special attention was given to the potential for closer cooperation among stakeholders, including through joint initiatives, exchange of good practices, and the development of integrated solutions responding to current tourism sector needs. Challenges related to the visibility of local crafts, market access, and the need for innovation in their presentation were also discussed.
The meeting provided a platform for open exchange of ideas and perspectives, with participants outlining concrete directions for the next phase of project implementation, including stronger involvement of local communities and further development of existing regional initiatives.
The DanubeCrafts project brings together 18 organisations from 12 countries in Central and South-Eastern Europe, with the common goal of supporting the sustainable development of cultural tourism through the preservation and modern promotion of traditional crafts. The project runs from 1 April 2025 to 30 September 2027.
