Depopulation represents one of Spain's most significant territorial challenges. This phenomenon, often analyzed at the municipal level, also impacts thousands of smaller population centers, such as hamlets, villages, or minor local entities. According to the Ministry for Ecological Transition, municipalities and centers with fewer than 5,000 inhabitants face greater demographic risks, exacerbated by aging populations, low density, and continuous resident loss.
The Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (FEMP) highlights the delicate situation of the smallest municipalities. Approximately 15% to 17% of Spanish municipalities, around 1,300, have fewer than 100 inhabitants, making them especially vulnerable.
In response to this reality, RuralGo was launched, a project designed to offer municipalities a direct communication channel with their inhabitants, along with resources and opportunities. The platform facilitates access to job offers from local businesses, the search for professionals (such as in the construction sector), and housing.
The website (www.ruralgoespana.es) allows businesses to advertise and post offers, while citizens can find local professionals, such as elderly caregivers, plumbers, or electricians, services often scarce in these areas.
The service is free for citizens. The cost is borne by a municipal agent (town hall, local association, or a resident) with reduced rates, accessible even for villages with only a few dozen inhabitants. Albentosa (Teruel) is the first municipality to use RuralGo, managed by a local resident.
Joaquín Sierra, founder of the startup, explains that the company, born in Utiel, emerged from the need of its residents to find services and professionals. After a study, he identified these problems as common in other rural municipalities, coupled with the interest of town halls in improving citizen communication.
This need led to the Bando Digital (Digital Edict), where local administrations and social agents can publish news and alerts directly to citizens' mobile devices.
“"RuralGo brings together all services located exclusively in rural areas and displays all necessary information with direct communication channels that will help connect rural areas with their potential users."
The startup has received support from CEEI Valencia and the Provincial Council of Valencia, with personalized mentoring. Furthermore, it was a finalist in the Go Rural event as one of the 10 startups with the greatest territorial impact.
