CheeseCulT: Boosting the local economy the gastronomic potential, a driving force for rural tourism development In a region of abundant natural resources, numerous examples of cultural & historic heritage, as well as vibrant folklore, the tourism industry has yet to become a major development driver. CheeseCulT presents a unique opportunity for sustainable tourism and new development models for the cross-border area, considering that livestock herding and the production of dairy products, most notably cheese, milk and yogurt, are an integral part of local culture and culinary tradition. Expected Results CheeseCult focuses on the interlinkage between agri-food and tourism sector, using local cheese & culinary tradition for boosting local economy through the increase of tourists in the CB area. The project is implemented under the Interreg IPA II CBC Greece-Albania Programme 2014-2020, and is co-funded by European Union and National Funds of Greece and Albania. The Project’s Lead Beneficiary is the University of Ioannina – Special Account for Research Funds/ Department of Agriculture. CheeseCulT also includes two Albanian partners, Argjiro and the University “EQREM ÇABEJ” Gjirokaster and one partner from Greece, Hellenic Agricultural Organization – Demeter.

The gastronomic potential, a driving force for rural tourism development

In a region of abundant natural resources, numerous examples of cultural & historic heritage, as well as vibrant folklore, the tourism industry has yet to become a major development driver. CheeseCulT presents a unique opportunity for sustainable tourism and new development models for the cross-border area, considering that livestock herding and the production of dairy products, most notably cheese, milk and yogurt, are an integral part of local culture and culinary tradition. CheeseCult focuses on the interlinkage between agri-food and tourism sector, using local cheese & culinary tradition for boosting local economy through the increase of tourists in the CB area. The project is implemented under the Interreg IPA II CBC Greece-Albania Programme 2014-2020, and is co-funded by European Union and National Funds of Greece and Albania.The Project’s Lead Beneficiary is the University of Ioannina – Special Account for Research Funds/Department of Agriculture. CheeseCulT also includes two Albanian partners, Argjiro and the University “EQREM ÇABEJ” Gjirokaster and one partner from Greece, Hellenic Agricultural Organization – Demeter.