(Small cities near rural areas with socioeconomic and demographic issues, poor infrastructure, and a low industry mix.)
Local and Regional Policies
Succession Entrepreneurship Program: Many small businesses in these regions face closure due to a lack of successors. Create a matchmaking platform where aging business owners can connect with entrepreneurial students willing to take over. Offer tax breaks for student takeovers and facilitate “trial run” internships.
Public-Private Microbusiness Funds: Establish a municipal microloan program (€5,000–€15,000) for startups addressing local needs (e.g., AgriTech, tourism, small-scale manufacturing).
Cooperative Business Models: Promote student-run cooperatives in key industries like local food production, rural logistics, and community-based digital services.
Affordable Workspaces: Convert underused public buildings into affordable co-working hubs with priority access for student entrepreneurs.
University Policies
Entrepreneurship in All Programs: Integrate basic business courses into all disciplines, particularly in fields relevant to the region (agriculture, tourism, environmental sciences).
Successor Entrepreneurship Training: Offer courses on business acquisition alongside traditional startup modules.
University-Business Connection: Inspire students to complete an internship in a local SME to build familiarity with regional business opportunities.
Concrete Incentives
Takeover Incentives: Offer municipal grants (e.g., €10,000) for students taking over existing local businesses.
No-Tax Period for Startups: Provide two years of local tax exemption for graduates launching or taking over a business.
Business Incubation Vouchers: Cover the first year of business consultancy, legal, and accounting fees for new student-led businesses.
