During the last plenary meeting, we were hosts of the Devetaki Plateau Association and the Municipality of Sevlievo, and learnt about all the work they are doing in the pilot.
During the last SMART ERA plenary meeting in Bulgaria, we were hosted by the Devetaki Plateau Association (DPA) and the Municipality of Sevlievo, and learnt about all the work they are doing to improve the region. Their contribution provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by the Devetaki Plateau pilot.
The Devetaki Plateau and Sevlievo: A Region of Natural and Cultural Value
The Devetaki Plateau is located in northern Bulgaria and is a remote rural area with around 12,000 inhabitants spread across nine villages and three municipalities. The territory is part of the Natura 2000 National Ecological Network, boasting rich biodiversity, caves, waterfalls, and unique landscapes. Alongside its natural assets, the region has a strong cultural identity expressed through local folklore and traditional cuisine.
Local folk singers
Despite its potential, the area faces significant demographic and social challenges. Many young people have left in search of education, employment and services, leaving behind an ageing population who often feel disconnected from decision-making processes. Limited access to social, cultural and educational services, as well as weak links with municipal authorities, has further increased the sense of isolation among residents.
However, a new generation of young families and entrepreneurs is emerging. They are investing in rural tourism and agriculture, and seeking to contribute actively to the region’s development. Creating the conditions for their meaningful participation is essential for ensuring long-term sustainability and attractiveness.
Young local family enterprise of wine producers
The Devetaki Plateau Association: Building Community-Led Development
The Devetaki Plateau Association is a Bulgarian non-profit organisation established in 2008 to stimulate regional development, improve quality of life, and promote the area. It unites people from nine neighbouring villages – Agatovo, Brestovo, Devetaki, Gorsko Slivovo, Kakrina, Kramolin, Krushuna, Karpachevo and Tepava – who had not previously cooperated in a structured way despite being geographically close.
The refurbished mill that hosts the headquarters of the DPA and many community events
Today, the association has 140 members from a variety of backgrounds, including farmers, cultural figures, young people, local authorities, retired citizens, NGOs and businesses. All of these members are committed to the sustainable development of the plateau. The municipalities of Sevlievo, Letnitsa and Lovech are key partners, supporting projects and joint initiatives.
The Association’s main activities focus on preserving and developing regional resources, strengthening local people’s capacity to manage natural assets, and promoting the plateau as an attractive tourist destination offering outdoor recreation and learning opportunities. In collaboration with local authorities, the association has implemented small yet meaningful community-led projects, such as improving public parks, enhancing access to caves and waterfalls, building bus stops and fountains, and promoting local heritage.
The Devetashka cave, home to 35.000 bats
Within the SMART ERA project, the Devetaki Plateau pilot builds on this experience to encourage participation in decision-making processes and to co-create smart, digital solutions that are tailored to local needs. By engaging with residents of all ages, from retirees to young entrepreneurs investing in tourism and agriculture, the Association is ensuring that the future of the plateau is shaped collectively.
Project partners looking over the region
The SMART ERA Devetaki Plateau pilot demonstrates how a well-organised local partnership, rooted in community engagement and respect for natural heritage, can unlock the potential of remote rural areas and make them more inclusive, resilient, and attractive to both residents and visitors.
