Our activities

Research and strategy formation

In 2014, we carried out a research programme with the support of the Ministry of National Development. This programme covered nine communities. In the course of the elaboration of the study about the examination of the economic and environmental sustainability of communities in the neighbourhood of Kis-Balaton, the ideas of the local governments were assessed, involving the decision-makers of the communities, in addition to a survey related to local people. Involving the University of Pannonia – Georgikon Faculty, a study was drawn up about the potential utilization of renewable energy sources in the region. In 2015, we participated in planning the rural development strategy of the region within the framework of the programme “Innovative Southern Zala HACS”.

Economic development focussing on local circumstances

We joined the project “Across the Country” within the framework of the cooperation programme among LEADER regions. As a result of the project, the participants acquired knowledge about the social cooperative system and laid down at the same time the operational framework for several cooperatives which were set up in the region. The management of the Association joined the programme on the one hand, on the other we took part directly in the implementation of project elements related to Southern Zala, thus promoting the establishment of a cooperative on the site of the Association.
In 2016-2017, we took successfully part in the programme called “Sustainable Regional Development” in the course of which the building of the old dairy of Zalamerenye obtained a new function after its reconstruction. As a multifunctional building, it presents the local assets and plays an important role as a tourist attraction and as a place in the life of the regional communities alike. In addition, it is the place where the administrative tasks of our organization are carried out.

Development of a cooperation network

In addition to developing cooperation with local communities and organizations, we established international connections with the local governments of Donja Dubrava, Croatia and Nagyborosnyó, Transylvania as well as organizations from Austria. As a result of these efforts, we took successfully part in setting up a work of art focussing on the message of sustainability in a public place. This was in 2017.

Campaigns and event management

In recent years, we have received visitors on several occasions. So we could show the natural and historical heritage of Kis-Balaton to children from nursery schools and schools, work colleagues from businesses, and groups of artists. We have been organizing events focussing on Kis-Balaton by means of grants from grant applications every year. We also join major events of the communities.