IN-ECOS
Cooperative for the Innovation of Territories and Ecosystems
We believe that rural territories matter - they can be powerful ecosystems for innovation and growth
Our mission is to support rural territories and communities' advancement through innovative and sustainable solutions. As a catalyst for change, strategic partner, technical advisor and co-creator, IN-ECOS builds the capacity of multi-actor to acknowledge territorial drivers of change and shape future-ready ecosystems.
OUR TERRITORIAL ECOSYSTEMS
Based in Portugal’s Alentejo region and active in Beira Baixa, IN-ECOS works with rural territories as living ecosystems for innovation, sustainability and inclusive development. As a service cooperative, we support communities, public administrations and local stakeholders in navigating territorial transitions, regenerating rural life and building future-ready places.
Through innovation labs, pilot projects, cross-border cooperation, civic tech and community-led initiatives, IN-ECOS connects people, ideas and technologies to strengthen local capacities and create more resilient, participatory and regenerative rural ecosystems.
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Territorial innovation accelerator: As each territory is unique, it must respond to its own dynamics and opportunities to reach its potential. IN-ECOS supports local administration to move beyond traditional approaches and embrace innovation, creating more agile and responsive territories. We co-design and facilitate innovation labs that enable experimentation, collaboration and community-centred solutions.
Pilot projects and cross-border cooperations: IN-ECOS brings together diverse actors to co-create local innovations, test them on the ground and scale what works through regional and international partnerships. This collaborative process enhances knowledge exchange, strengthens local capacities and drives sustainable territorial transformation.
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Intergenerational empowerment: We bring generations and initiatives together to stimulate innovation, reinforce social bonds and foster vibrant, resilient communities where everyone can thrive. IN-ECOS empowers people through participatory initiatives that value shared knowledge, creativity and mutual learning. These initiatives nurture local ownership and inspire collective action for sustainable change.
Sustainable living: People around the world are increasingly affected by climate and sustainability issues. IN-ECOS collaborates with local governments, stakeholders and communities to develop solutions that encourage healthier and more environmentally friendly living, responsible consumption and environmental awareness. Through green labs, circular economy initiatives and behaviour change programmes, we support territories in transitioning towards more sustainable, inclusive and regenerative ways of living.
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Civic tech for open governance: In an era where technology is shaping societal change, civic tech is redefining the way in which public administrations, local organisations and communities collaborate to address urgent social issues. IN-ECOS uses participatory methods to design, monitor and evaluate innovative solutions that strengthen civic engagement. By exploring technologies such as AI and UX, we generate insights and tools that promote transparency, inclusivity and citizen-driven governance.
RIC Network: The Rural Innovation Challenges (RIC) Network brings together people, communities, entrepreneurs, public institutions and stakeholders to co-create solutions to emerging rural issues. Through open calls, innovation sprints and co-design, the network fosters experimentation and cross-sector learning. This international network advocates policy and accelerates the development of impactful ideas that promote resilience, inclusion and sustainability in rural territories.
OUR SERVICES
Innovative services for sustainable development
CURRENT INITIATIVES
With a mission-driven and collaborative approach, IN-ECOS brings together diverse partners and multi-actor groups to analyse key drivers of change and co-create solutions with lasting economic, social, environmental and cultural value.
Our initiatives translate this approach into territorial innovation, rural regeneration, capacity-building and European cooperation, supporting more resilient, inclusive and future-ready ecosystems.
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GO-Digital 50+ Upskilling pathways to bridge the digital divide for the ageing workforce in traditional SMEs
╔ Portugal ╔ Italy ╔ Ireland ╔ Austria ╔ Hungary
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Objective: 50+ GO DIGITAL bridges the digital skills gap among workers aged 50+ in SMEs, strengthening employability and workplace adaptability. The project supports SMEs in adopting DigCompOrg, creates a micro-credential framework for skills validation and trains VET providers to deliver sector-specific digital training. It embeds digital upskilling into workforce policies to generate long-term impact.
Funding: Erasmus+, 2025-1-IT01-KA220-VET-000354895 -
TAKE5 5 minutes to transform basic skills and build key competences
╔ Portugal ╔ Germany ╔ Ireland ╔ Austria ╔ Cyprus ╔ Italy ╔ Spain
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Objective: TAKE5 motivates and inspires young VET learners to engage with vocational education through interactive, challenge-based digital learning resources. The project strengthens basic skills essential for workforce integration and future vocational success, while also building learners’ self-confidence and supporting effective learning and study practices. In parallel, it equips VET educators with robust digital pedagogy and innovative learning approaches to enhance digital and online education.
Funding: Erasmus+, 2025-1-DE02-KA220-VET-000361224-P7
ABOUT US
OUR TEAM AND EXPERTISE
IN-ECOS brings together a multidisciplinary team of experts working across sustainability, territorial innovation, public policy, civic engagement, capacity-building, cultural heritage, behavioural insights and digital ecosystems.
As a service cooperative, IN-ECOS operates through a collaborative structure that enables experts to share knowledge, resources and opportunities while providing strategic guidance and technical support tailored to rural communities’ needs.
Our team supports territorial transitions, rural community regeneration and the IN-ECOS Think Tank by fostering collaborative learning, knowledge exchange, co-creation and strategic foresight. Together, we strengthen local capacities and amplify the potential of rural areas across Europe.
