Jordi Romeu, an Ineco Railway Signalling expert and participant in two editions of the Ineco RuralTIC programme, speaking at the “Companies Investing in Rural Communities” panel discussion
Ineco has taken part in the 8th León Depopulation Congress, held in one of the Spanish provinces with the highest number of municipalities enrolled in the company’s digitalisation programme, Ineco RuralTIC. Over two days, the event brought together institutional representatives, mayors, academics and businesses to discuss different perspectives on the demographic challenge facing rural areas.
Jordi Romeu, a Railway Signalling Specialist at Ineco and a digital nomad in two editions of Ineco RuralTIC, participated in the panel discussion "Businesses Investing in Rural Communities", where he shared his experience of the programme, which is aimed at municipalities with fewer than 10,000 inhabitants.
Ineco RuralTIC combines remote working for company professionals with stays in rural communities, during which participants deliver workshops and provide guidance to residents, self-employed professionals and small businesses on the use of digital tools. Activities are agreed in advance with each local authority to ensure they are tailored to the specific needs identified in the municipality. According to Romeu, the programme delivers value on two fronts: “We adapt to the needs of each community. We share our knowledge and practical experience in technology, but we also learn a great deal about what life in a rural village is really like.”
The programme focuses on two complementary areas: improving citizens’ digital skills and supporting self-employed professionals and small businesses in matters such as management improvements, online visibility and the use of new digital communication channels. Since its launch in 2022, Ineco RuralTIC has carried out activities in more than 130 municipalities, with a combined population of over 290,000 people. Across its different editions, nearly 1,500 workshops have been delivered, involving more than 800 SMEs.
The fifth edition of the programme will begin in January 2027. Municipalities with fewer than 10,000 inhabitants interested in taking part can apply until October 30, 2026 via the programme’s registration form.
