The 4-year European Union-funded project “Green Guria,” implemented by CENN, is leaving a significant mark on the region. Its greatest achievement is the establishment and empowerment of Local Action Groups (LAGs). Today, the LAGs of Lanchkhuti, Ozurgeti, and Chokhatauri are successfully expanding beyond the boundaries of temporary, project-based entities. The new initiatives they have launched prove that these organizations are transitioning to an independent, self-reliant model, ready to remain the primary pillars of regional development long after the “Green Guria” project concludes.
Multifunctional Space in Lanchkhuti
The Lanchkhuti Local Action Group has set out to create an environment in the municipality that will simultaneously serve as an organizational hub and a creative and educational gathering place for local youth. Supported by the local municipality, the LAG was granted free-of-charge use of a 50-square-meter space in the city center for a 10-year term. Currently, the rehabilitation and functional arrangement of the space are underway.
This new community platform will offer young people opportunities to engage in non-formal education programs, cultural activities, and a theater studio. At the same time, the project incorporates an innovative economic component: a laser engraving machine will be installed in the space. The revenue generated from engraving services on various items (souvenirs, gifts, and corporate materials) will cover the venue’s operational costs, ensuring the organization’s long-term independence and sustainability.
Ozurgeti’s Digital Guide to Tourism and Entrepreneurship
Ozurgeti LAG is focusing its efforts on digital development. Numerous successful tourism and business initiatives have been funded in the municipality with EU support, all of which now require promotion to reach a wider audience. To address this need, the Ozurgeti Local Action Group, in partnership with Tech Park Ozurgeti, is creating a digital guide for tourism and entrepreneurship.
As part of this initiative, a unified digital database and multimedia materials are being prepared for online publication. To enhance accessibility, special QR codes will be installed in key public gathering spots across the city, providing locals and visitors with quick access to the guide. The project also carries educational value, offering young people at the Tech Park internship opportunities to master drone filming, photography, video editing, and other crucial digital skills.
Chokhatauri’s “Path of Knowledge”
In Chokhatauri municipality, the focus is placed on synthesizing ecotourism and education. On the initiative of the local Action Group, the “Chokhatauri Path of Knowledge” is being developed to connect the region’s natural heritage with local entrepreneurs. The project involves installing physical information boards and building a digital platform that will easily guide travelers to the Chokhatauri Dendrological Park, as well as family wine cellars and craft workshops of local producers.
This path will serve not only as an engaging tourist route but also as an educational resource for schools and local eco-clubs. For entrepreneurs, it offers an opportunity to be permanently featured on this shared map and increase the visibility of their products for a minimal annual membership fee.
These ongoing initiatives across all three municipalities of Guria demonstrate that Local Action Groups (LAGs) are firmly establishing themselves as independent, innovative, and community-driven organizations. The new spaces and digital tools they have created will significantly contribute to revitalizing the region and empowering the local population in the long run.
This article was prepared with the support of the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of CENN and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.