This autumn, Navarre will become the main national meeting point for territorial innovation, rural youth, and policies to combat depopulation
From November 10 to 13, 2026, Estella-Lizarra will host the National Meeting of the Network of Territorial Innovation Centers (CIT), the 1st National Congress of Rural Youth, and the gathering for the Campus Rural program. This landmark event—promoted by the Government of Navarre’s Department of Territorial Cohesion and the Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (MITECO)—will bring together institutional representatives, experts, businesses, universities, and development stakeholders from across the country to share innovative solutions that help secure the future of rural areas. Organized in collaboration with the Public University of Navarre and the Estella-Lizarra City Council, the initiative is designed as a forum for collaboration, cooperation, and knowledge transfer aimed at strengthening the role of rural areas as hubs of innovation, young talent, opportunity creation, and shared progress.
Collaboration Agreement
This major national gathering will also be underpinned by the signing of a collaboration agreement between MITECO and the Chartered Community of Navarre. The agreement aims to develop systemic solutions for transformative innovation in areas facing specific demographic challenges. Spanning four years with a budget of €850,000—of which the Government of Navarre will contribute €340,000—the agreement will fund institutional cooperation and support the Navarre Territorial Innovation Center (CIT). This center serves as a strategic hub for developing innovative projects, creating economic and social opportunities, and strengthening territorial cohesion across the region's rural areas.
Extensive Program
The program will combine institutional and technical activities with formats open to the general public, professional meetings, and on-the-ground experiences. It will bring together more than 300 representatives from diverse sectors and locations across the country in the city of Estella-Lizarra. The opening day, November 10, will follow the "Repopulation Tuesdays" (*Martes de Repoblación*) format and take place in a municipality within the Estella district, offering a local welcome to representatives from across the country. This will be followed by a session showcasing inspiring experiences, cultural activities, and a networking space for representatives from Territorial Innovation Centers (CITs), young people, institutions, and local stakeholders.
Source: navarra.es
