Lokalna akcijska grupa Središnja Istra
Local action group Central Istria
Introduction
Local Action Group “Central Istria” (ISTRIA) is a non-profit organization founded by local municipalities, private sector representatives, and civic actors, aiming to implement its Local Development Strategy under the National Rural Development Program. Established within the LEADER Programme, ISTRIA has extensive experience in rural development and the management of EU and national funds, addressing local community needs. The organization promotes sustainable tourism, cultural heritage, and local entrepreneurship, supporting projects such as the INSIGHTS Danube project, which developed integrated slow, green, and healthy tourism strategies, including the interactive tourist map “Authentic Istria.”
Legal status:
public
Link:
Website:
Contact person:
Contact email:
Address:
154. brigade Hrvatske vojske 5, 52000 Pazin
Thematic relevance
Central Istria has significant but underexploited tourism potential, particularly in cultural and gastronomic heritage. Within this project, ISTRIA will focus on valorizing the traditional “Pazinski cukerančić” pastry, recognized as intangible cultural heritage and protected in Croatia. Activities will include sustainable brand management, community engagement, and educational initiatives for children and young people, ensuring the transfer of traditional knowledge and skills. By combining heritage preservation with modern interpretation, ISTRIA aims to strengthen local tourism, increase the visibility of inland Istria, and generate economic and social benefits for local communities while promoting the cultural and culinary identity of the region.