The European Urban Local Action Group Network
Welcome to
EUrbanLAG Net
The European Urban Local Action Group Network (EUrbanLAG Net) is a non-profit association that brings together urban Local Action Groups (LAGs) and equivalent local partnerships from across Europe.
ABOUT US
Community-Led Local Development (CLLD)
We unite local actors who implement Community-Led Local Development (CLLD) strategies and other integrated urban initiatives, based on:
CLLD
Community-Led Local Development
We unite local actors who implement Community-Led Local Development (CLLD)
strategies and other integrated urban initiatives, based on:
Place-based local development strategies
This involves creating development plans specifically tailored to the unique economic, social, and environmental characteristics of a particular area, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all model.
Bottom-up approaches
This means empowering residents, community groups, and local businesses to lead the decision-making process, ensuring that development projects truly reflect the needs and aspirations of the people who live and work in the area.
Public–private partnerships
This refers to collaboration between public authorities (like local governments) and private sector entities or civil society organizations to pool resources, share expertise, and work together on projects that benefit the community.
Integrated, multi-sectoral actionables
This is about taking a holistic approach to development by addressing various issues—such as economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability—simultaneously and in a coordinated manner.
Innovation, networking, and cooperation
This involves fostering creativity and new ideas, building strong connections among local stakeholders, and encouraging collaborative efforts to address complex challenges and create sustainable change.
Through EUrbanLAG Net, members gain a strong collective voice at the European level, exchanging knowledge, building partnerships, and influencing policies that shape the future of urban communities.
Valentin Gheorghe DIMON
(President)
“For more than a decade, I have been working with Urban Local Action Groups, developing projects focused on social inclusion, employment, and community regeneration. I have coordinated and led initiatives in the Urban LAGs of Bucharest – Sector 2, Câmpina, and Slobozia. Today, as President of EUrbanLAG Net, my priority is to turn local experience into a collective European force.”
“Our network connects urban LAGs across Europe, facilitates the exchange of good practices, supports compliance and access to funding, and provides a united voice in dialogue with EU institutions. I strongly believe in honest partnerships, measurable results, and in the power of communities to shape their own future. Together, we transform ideas into impact for our cities!”
Monika Smetanová
(VICE-PRESIDENT)
“Monika Smetanová is the president of the Urban Local Action Group Krajina srdce, established as a branch association of a well-established rural LAG in the city of Tábor. She has extensive experience in territorial development, community cooperation, and the implementation of projects funded by EU programmes.”
“She actively works to bridge urban and rural approaches within Community-Led Local Development (CLLD) and advocates for the specific needs of urban and peri-urban areas to be addressed at both national and European levels. Monika strongly believes that open cooperation and the sharing of inspiration among European cities are key to sustainable and inclusive development.”
Traian Bălănică
(VICE-PRESIDENT)
“I have led the ANTON CINCU TECUCI Local Action Group since 2016, building on over 20 years of experience in public administration. Through various European-funded projects, I’ve seen how such initiatives can transform small urban communities.”
“Together with my colleagues, I co-founded the EUrbanLAG Net to promote collaboration and improve EU urban policies. I believe this network can become a trusted partner for European institutions, supporting sustainable urban development and stronger community ties across Europe.”
BRUSSELS, 3-5 NOVEMBER 2025
Official Launch Event
CLLD 5% – Strong Communities for an Urban Europe That Leaves No One Behind
We are excited to announce that the official presentation of the European Urban Local Action Group Network (EUrbanLAG Net) will take place in Brussels, in 3-5 November 2025.
This event will mark a significant milestone in bringing together Urban Local Action Groups (LAGs) and equivalent partnerships from across Europe to strengthen cooperation, share experiences, and amplify the voice of urban communities at the European level.
Become a Member of EUrbanLAG Net
To join, your organisation must: be an Urban LAG or equivalent local partnership implementing a Community-Led Local Development (CLLD) strategy or similar integrated urban approach; commit to our values of inclusion, cooperation, and democratic local governance.