Los programas de innovación rural en Castilla-La Mancha: un análisis de la inversión en pymes y servicios

Public initiatives in support of sustainable development in rural areas are particularly important in Castilla-La Mancha, which is facing signifi cant socioeconomic changes that will undoubtedly affect the future of its rural areas. European Union Regulation 1698/2005, which regulates EU aid through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), represents a radical change in rural development policies. In conjunction with a model of competitive, sustainable and market-oriented agriculture, the regulation aims to achieve environmental conservation and economic diversifi cation for the sustainable development of rural areas and their citizens. The present study analyses the impact of projects providing support to small businesses and services within rural innovation programmes. For the empirical analysis, the work uses LEADER + and PRODER II investment fi gures for the period 2002-2007 in Castilla-La Mancha.