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28 February 2025
Kramolin village, Municipality of Sevlievo
As part of the SMART ERA project, a Smart Innovation Package (SIP) co-design workshop was conducted in Kramolin Village to identify key challenges and smart solutions for the community. The SIP methodology was used to facilitate structured discussions, ensuring that community members actively contributed to shaping practical and sustainable solutions.
The workshop was attended by 24 local residents, including the Mayor of Kramolin, as well as representatives from Devetaki Plateau Association, a regional organization working on rural development. The session aimed to identify priority areas for intervention and co-design Smart Innovation Packages (SIPs) that could address the most pressing socio-economic and infrastructure challenges in the village.
The workshop used Bulgarian-translated SIP methodology cards, ensuring full participation and a clear understanding of the process among all attendees.
Sevlievo’s active participation was demonstrated through: Community engagement by facilitating discussions with stakeholders and gathering essential data, Contribution to SIP co-design by leading problem identification and mapping out innovation solutions, Supporting the integration of SIPs in the community through analysis and refinement.
The SIP methodology was implemented in identifying Local Challenges. Using structured discussions and participatory brainstorming, participants were asked to highlight the most urgent needs in Kramolin. The following key issues were identified: lack of medical services, limited public transport, need for job opportunities and better infrastructure.
With these challenges in mind, we introduced SIP Ingredient Cards and used a SIP Co-Design Board to structure solutions. Through group discussions and prioritization exercises, we identified the Smart Innovation Packages.
Results & Next Steps
Telemedicine Implementation:
- Work with local healthcare institutions to set up remote consultations.
- Identify funding sources for telemedicine equipment.
- Train local volunteers to assist with patient care.
Transport Expansion:
- Approach regional bus operators for route extensions.
- Explore EU rural mobility grants for a shared community minibus.
- Develop a carpooling initiative within the village.
Job Creation & Infrastructure:
- Establish a co-working space with basic amenities.
- Promote agritourism & local businesses through online platforms.
- Work with authorities for road repair & internet expansion.
The SIP co-design process in Kramolin Village proved highly effective in engaging the community and identifying practical smart solutions. The Telemedicine Hub, Rural Transport Model, and Job Creation Initiatives are now being developed into actionable projects with support from local authorities and regional organizations.