7 October 2019 – An event qualification process has started in Coimbra Region with the aim to enhance the quality of local gastronomic events, increase their visibility and ensure their commitment to the principles underpinning the programme of Coimbra Region, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2021.
Promoted by the 19 municipalities of the Intermunicipal Community of Coimbra Region, the initiative is considered a priority action within the region’s strategy to support and publicise local gastronomy and culture.
Following a first stage of needs assessment, 19 events (one in each municipality) have been identified to undertake the qualification process which integrates four fundamental phases to be implemented in the next 16 months.
While Phase 1 will include the creation of a matrix, guidance and creative development of graphic and visual identity for the events, Phase 2 will provide a training for the organisation teams of municipal events.
Qualification and certification of the 19 events will be the aim of Phase 3 that will combine support and guidance to define the events’ programmes; adaptation and renewal of their graphic identity, and visual and creative concept; team coordination and coaching; support in the events’ communication plans and follow-ups.
Finally, Phase 4 will be devoted to an overall evaluation of the initiative and the review of the project’s guidelines.
The qualification process is due to kick off in the first half of October 2019, when a meeting will be held with the event organisation teams of the involved municipalities to present the work plan.
About the Regions of Gastronomy Platform
Candidate and awarded Regions of Gastronomy, guided by IGCAT, are working together to raise awareness about the importance of their cultural and food uniqueness; stimulate creativity and gastronomic innovation; educate for better nutrition; improve sustainable tourism standards; highlight distinctive food cultures; and strengthen community well-being.
About IGCAT
IGCAT aims to empower local communities by raising awareness of the importance to safeguard and promote distinct food, culture, arts and sustainable tourism assets. This is essential to balance against globalised food trends that are impacting on our planet, health and local economies.
IGCAT is a non-profit institute established in 2012, working with regional stakeholder consortiums in the fields of gastronomy, culture, arts and tourism. It counts on the expertise of a worldwide network of experts and works in partnership with specialised intergovernmental organisations.
IGCAT provides the Region of Gastronomy Award and is the official secretariat for the European and World Regions of Gastronomy Platform. Furthermore, the Institute has developed the European Young Chef Award, the European Food Gift Challenge, the Top Visitor Experience and the Food Film Menu.