Innovative use of resources and diversification of the economic structure of rural areas on the basis of local action group MROGA experience

Abstract

One of the tasks of local action groups is to support diversification of the economic structure of rural areas. Projects which make use of local resources in unique, non- standard ways (with reference to the achievements of the French school of Economie de la Proximie) may be called innovative. Analysis was applied to one of the local action groups from the Łódź voivodeship – MROGA Association for the Local Community Development. The aim of this analysis was to estimate the potential of this structure as regards innovative use of local resources in diversification of the local economy by creating non-agricultural jobs. The case study method was applied; analysis of secondary materials was carried out (the local development strategy and competition documentation regarding to the development of local economy in the area supported by this organization). The selected association (realising own projects) contributes to the innovative development of rural economy. Moreover, in supported area, new non-agricultural workplaces are created in which local resources are also used in a non-standard way.