This summer, something truly inspiring happened in the Latvian countryside. The “Countryside to be!” business ideas competition brought together young and budding entrepreneurs who consciously choose to develop their business outside the urban environment.
These stories show that successful, sustainable businesses can grow outside cities – with a clear vision, determination and courage.
The aim of the competition is simple but very important: to support young people and young entrepreneurs in rural areas by providing knowledge, mentoring and practical help to turn ideas into real, viable businesses.
Business ideas were evaluated and supported in three categories:
- agriculture;
- adding value to agricultural products
- non-agricultural production and services
Video as a prize – for stories that deserve to be heard
As part of the competition, two entrepreneurs received SPREDD-produced videos as a prize – practical support to help make ideas visible, understandable and emotionally relatable to a wider audience.
One of these stories is “Zaļie Priežkalni” in Saulkrasti – a business created by a determined young entrepreneur, combining a mini zoo with meat and egg production. It is a thoughtful, practical rural enterprise based on responsibility, care and a long-term vision.
The second story comes from Suntaži, where the social enterprise “Pasta māja” – a dessert shop – operates, where along with enjoying desserts you can write a letter to your future self. It is a unique combination of experience, emotion and entrepreneurship that adds value not only to the product, but also to the visitor. More about the “Post House “: https://www.pasta-maja.lv/
Value beyond the end result
By the end of the year, both video projects were successfully realised, but the real value went far beyond the end result. For us at SPREDD, this project was a reminder that with motivation, courage and a clear idea, it is possible not only to start a business, but also to develop it with meaning and purpose.
We are grateful for the opportunity to be part of these stories and to be inspired by the people who make them. Sometimes the most powerful business stories are born out of the spotlight – and they deserve to be seen and heard.
