IN SITU: Place-based innovation of cultural and creative industries in non-urban areas Project organises a Final conference (Valmiera, 11-13 May 2026), “Culture Matters Here. Cultivating Creative Place-based Innovation in Non-urban Communities”

Co-organised by the Latvian Academy of Culture and the Centre for Social Studies of the University of Coimbra in cooperation with the European Network of Cultural Centres, Culture Action Europe and all the IN SITU project partners, and in conjunction with  our local associates, Valmiera County Municipality and Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences. This event will be a catalyst for networking, exchange, and knowledge-building among participants, furthering understanding of the issues and opportunities for rural creative work, and contributing to a more supportive environment for cultural and creative actors in non-urban areas.

For the upcoming Final Conference IN SITU project invites scholars, researchers, artists, cultural practitioners, activists, policymakers, and decision-makers from across the world and a wide variety of disciplines to submit proposals for presentations of papers and projects. We welcome participation by the large community of the European Rural Pact, including the Community Group on Culture and Creativity in Rural Areas. A special geographical focus will be placed on innovative and sustainable cultural and creative practices in remote areas and peripheral corners of Europe.

All submissions should offer an original contribution to the vital topic of place-based innovation and the transformative power of the creative and cultural sector in forging more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable communities in rural and non-urban areas. We will also share key insights from our research, highlight project results, and look ahead to future plans. Additionally, the event will host the premiere of the IN SITU documentary, offering an inside look at our Labs and case studies.

Read more on the Call for Proposals documents.