Arrabona ETT

The Arrabona EGTC submitted its proposal titled “OPENFARMS – Network of Open Farms and Agrotourism Routes” in January the Interreg Hungary–Slovakia Programme. The project aims to innovatively develop short supply chains (SSC) based on the concept of “open farms.” Its main pillars include network building, professional support for open farms, the creation of agrotourism routes, the introduction of digital and logistical solutions, as well as marketing and knowledge sharing. During the development of the project, key aspects for the region’s sustainable future were also examined, such as cooperation among local producers, opportunities for networking, expanding their knowledge, and strengthening direct connections between small-scale local producers and conscious consumers.

Stakeholders in the region—especially small-scale farmers and artisanal producers—require developments that enhance their business, hygiene, tourism, and cooperation competencies, support market access, and enable sustainable operations. In border regions, additional challenges include lack of information, insufficient knowledge of differing regulations, and the absence of a shared quality assurance system.

The OPENFARMS project addresses these challenges through broad partnership cooperation: Arrabona EGTC, as the lead partner, coordinates the professional work. The total planned budget for the project is €495,920.45, of which €396,736.35 is requested as European Union funding.

Tangible results of the project include the establishment of a cross-border open farm network, with professional support provided by the Pannónia Kincse LEADER Association. Through network development, the creation of shared professional and quality standards, competency-building workshops, and marketing support, the value chain position of small-scale producers and processors will improve, while local markets and agri- and ecotourism connections will expand. Closely linked to these activities, the Municipality of Abda supports improved market access by organizing study visits and developing local market infrastructure.

Additional project elements—such as a continuously operating local product vending machine planned in Csiliznyárad and promotional activities for the Csilizköz Producers’ Market—strengthen the “farm to fork” approach, conscious consumption, and food sovereignty. The open farm concept and increased online accessibility enhance public reach, trust, and the market visibility of local products. In the long term, the project contributes to sustainable food systems, the economic strengthening of rural areas, and the continuity of cross-border cooperation.

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