Rural Development Project Preparation and Implementation Manager

The Rural Development Project Preparation and Implementation Manager programme is a specialised education programme designed for anyone who wants to acquire practical knowledge and skills for the preparation, application, and implementation of projects in the rural development sector. The programme focuses on the independent preparation of a business plan, the development of an application package, work with call documentation, and understanding the steps required for high-quality project implementation, supported by practical work on real-life examples. A particular value of the programme lies in the fact that participants work on their own project topic throughout the training, receive individual feedback from mentors, and learn through current call documentation, concrete project proposals, and real business situations. The programme is accredited by the Agency for Vocational Education and Training and Adult Education, and upon successful completion participants receive a certificate of training that is recorded in the electronic employment record.

• Understand the rules governing the preparation and implementation of rural development projects, as well as funding opportunities available through relevant funds and calls.
• Prepare a business plan, develop an application package, and organise the documentation required for project submission.
• Apply current call documentation, work within the relevant systems, and use methodologies aligned with the strategic priorities of rural development.
• Resolve real project tasks through practical exercises, individual mentoring, and the preparation of a concrete project proposal.

Upon completion of the programme, participants will be able to:

• analyse call documentation and identify the requirements relevant to rural development projects
• prepare the basic elements of a business plan for a project in the rural development sector
• develop an application package and organise the supporting documentation for a project application
• use AGRONET and related procedures in the process of preparing and submitting a project application
• plan the basic steps of project implementation in accordance with the rules of the call and the requirements of the competent authorities
• assess the administrative, financial, and operational requirements of a rural development project
• improve the quality of a project proposal on the basis of mentor feedback, practical exercises, and work on a concrete example

The programme is intended for individuals who want to develop professional competences for the preparation and implementation of rural development projects and acquire knowledge that can be applied immediately in the public and private sectors. It is especially useful for those who want to prepare project proposals independently, develop business plans, and understand the operational logic of projects financed through EU funds.

• employees in public institutions and local and regional self-government units
• staff of development agencies and support institutions
• employees in agricultural, rural, and related business entities
• consultants and project associates seeking specialisation in rural development
• entrepreneurs and project holders operating in rural areas
• individuals seeking professional development or retraining in the field of EU funds and rural development

1. Rural Development System and Funding Sources
   Participants gain an overview of the rules, priorities, and funding opportunities for projects in the rural development sector. This unit covers relevant funds, strategic priorities, and the logic of calls in the field of rural development.
2. Call Documentation and Application Rules
   This unit focuses on understanding current call documentation and identifying the key application requirements. Participants learn how to read calls, distinguish essential information, and prepare for a high-quality project application.
3. Business Plan Preparation and Project Idea Development
   Participants develop the knowledge required to prepare a business plan and transform a project idea into a structured proposal. The emphasis is on practical work, the financial and narrative development of the project, and alignment with the conditions of the call.
4. Application Package and Preparation of Complete Documentation
   This unit addresses the preparation of the documentation required for project submission, including the organisation of attachments and understanding the application package. Special attention is given to the accuracy, completeness, and compliance of the documentation.
5. AGRONET and the Operational Steps of Submission
   Participants become familiar with the procedures and logic of working within the AGRONET system and learn how to prepare a project application technically and administratively for submission. The unit is focused on the practical application of knowledge in the real submission process.
6. Implementation of a Rural Development Project
   This unit covers the basic steps of project implementation after approval, including the organisation of activities, monitoring of delivery, and understanding of administrative obligations. Participants acquire the practical logic of proper project execution.
7. Mentoring and Preparation of a Concrete Project Proposal
   Each participant, in cooperation with a mentor, selects a project topic to work on throughout the programme. The final assignment includes the preparation of a business plan, a list of required documentation, and a description of the steps needed for the high-quality implementation of a project based on a concrete practical example.