In the heart of Galicia’s stunning Costa da Morte, iSlow Coliving is more than just a place to work and stay. It’s a hub for change—a space where innovation, community, and nature intersect to combat rural depopulation and revitalize the area. Through a variety of initiatives and programs, iSlow Coliving directly supports population retention in rural areas, creating opportunities for new generations and making life in the countryside an attractive option for families, professionals, and entrepreneurs.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how iSlow’s projects contribute to retaining people in rural areas, fostering economic, social, and cultural growth.
A Home for Families: Living and Working in Rural Areas
One of iSlow’s defining features is its family-friendly approach. Unlike many coliving spaces that cater exclusively to solo travelers or digital nomads, iSlow is designed to accommodate families. This unique aspect makes iSlow not only a temporary residence but a potential stepping stone arrangment for families looking to relocate to rural areas longer term.
By offering:
- Private family-friendly accommodations,
- Shared communal spaces,
- Access to coworking facilities, and
- A community-centered lifestyle,
we create an environment where parents can work remotely while their children thrive in a safe, natural setting. Families often discover the incredible benefits of rural living—healthier lifestyles, lower costs, and meaningful connections with the local community—leading to the decision to settle permanently in the area.
Why it matters:
Families bring stability to rural areas and help strengthen local schools, services, and social infrastructure. At iSlow, we believe in creating an inclusive environment where families can seamlessly integrate into rural life.
Supporting Entrepreneurs and Startups in the Rural Economy
At iSlow Coliving, we understand that sustainable rural development requires innovation and entrepreneurship. Our coworking facilities and collaborative programs offer a supportive environment for local entrepreneurs and digital nomads to share ideas, find inspiration, and build businesses that can thrive in rural settings.
Key initiatives include:
- Mentorship for Startups: At iSlow Coliving, we actively contribute to fostering entrepreneurship in rural areas by participating in initiatives like FIXAR and TheBreak. These programs are designed to empower entrepreneurs with the tools, networks, and support needed to create sustainable businesses in rural regions.
- FIXAR is a shining example of how collaboration among different rural coliving spaces can amplify impact. iSlow Coliving, Sende, and Anceu each bring unique strengths to the table, creating a synergy that enriches the program. FIXAR is collaborative residency program in Galicia that focuses on supporting entrepreneurs in building innovative projects that enhance rural economies. Through partnerships with coliving spaces like iSlow, FIXAR provides mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities to help participants launch impactful businesses while immersing themselves in the local culture.
TheBreak: Sponsored by European Union funds, this program connected women entrepreneurs from across Europe with rural communities in Spain. Participants bring fresh perspectives and ideas, contributing to local innovation while gaining insights into sustainable rural practices. In this initiative iSlow partnered with Pymeon, a well known organisation in Santiago with extensive experience supporting entrepreneurs through mentoring origrams. At iSlow we hosted participants, offering them a nurturing space to develop their projects while integrating them into the community.
- Skill Sharing and Networking Events: Beyond the above programs, iSlow supports rural entrepreneurs directly by providing a collaborative environment for ideation and project development. With access to coworking spaces, tailored resources, and a community of like-minded individuals, our colivers find the perfect setting to turn their ideas into reality. By creating opportunities for skill-sharing, networking, collaboration and innovation, iSlow plays a vital role in building a sustainable and vibrant rural economy.
Residency projects and Young Entrepreneurs:
Through programs such as Erasmus for young entrepreneurs, we host and support young entrepreneurs of different countries of Europe with their business ideas. This inspires the next generation to see rural areas not as places of limitation but as spaces of opportunity.
Why it matters:
Entrepreneurial activity creates jobs, drives economic growth, and generates a sense of optimism in the community. By supporting local businesses and startups, iSlow Coliving helps establish a foundation for long-term population retention.
Artistic Residencies: Merging Creativity with Rural Revitalization
Creativity plays a crucial role in making rural life attractive, especially to younger generations. At iSlow, our artistic residencies provide a platform for artists from all over the world to engage with the unique culture and landscape of Costa da Morte.
Highlights of our program:
Inspiring Local Youth Through Arts:
Resident artists frequently organize workshops and public exhibitions, introducing locals—especially young people—to new forms of expression and storytelling.Promoting Cultural Exchange:
By inviting international artists to Costa da Morte, we foster cultural exchange that enriches both the community and the artists themselves.Preserving Local Traditions:
Through projects inspired by Galicia’s rich heritage, our artists help preserve and celebrate local customs, making the area more appealing to those seeking an authentic lifestyle.
Why it matters:
Artistic initiatives breathe new life into rural areas, making them vibrant and attractive to younger generations. They also strengthen community bonds and encourage cultural pride, essential for population retention.
Leveraging Technology for Rural Prosperity
In today’s world, the ability to work remotely is a game-changer. However, many people still associate rural areas with a lack of connectivity and professional opportunities. iSlow Coliving is committed to changing that perception.
How we use technology:
High-Speed Internet:
Our facilities are equipped with reliable, fast internet, enabling professionals to work without interruptions, even in a rural setting.Coworking for Locals and Travelers:
Our coworking spaces aren’t just for residents; they’re open to locals and travelers who need a productive environment. This creates an ever-changing mix of professionals, fostering collaboration and idea-sharing.
Why it matters:
By showing that rural living is compatible with modern careers and technology, iSlow Coliving helps attract and retain people who might otherwise move to urban areas.
Fostering a Deep Connection with Nature
Living in harmony with nature is at the core of iSlow Coliving. For many, the opportunity to escape the chaos of city life and reconnect with the environment is a powerful motivator to consider rural living.
Activities that connect residents to nature:
Guided Outdoor Experiences:
Residents and visitors can participate in hiking, foraging, and birdwatching in the lush landscapes of Costa da Morte.Wellness Programs:
Yoga and mindfulness sessions in outdoor spaces promote physical and mental well-being, reinforcing the benefits of rural living.Environmental Education for Families and Youth:
Children and families can engage in activities that teach sustainable practices, from organic gardening to waste reduction.
Why it matters:
By showcasing the benefits of a life connected to nature, we attract individuals and families who value well-being and sustainability—key ingredients for population retention.
Integration with the Local Community
iSlow Coliving isn’t just about creating a space for visitors; it’s about building bridges between newcomers and the local population.
Initiatives for community integration:
Cultural Events:
We organise and join events that highlight Galician traditions, from culinary festivals to music and dance performances.Collaboration with Local Organisations:
We partner with local organisations to strengthen our impact on rural revitalization and connect our residents with meaningful opportunities.Support for Local Businesses:
By encouraging our residents to shop locally, we contribute to the economic vitality of the region.
Why it matters:
When people feel connected to a community, they’re more likely to stay and invest in the area. iSlow Coliving provides that connection through intentional programs and partnerships.
Offering an Immersive Experience for Travelers
Even for those who don’t plan to relocate permanently, iSlow offers a chance to experience rural living firsthand. Our immersive stays allow travelers to participate in local life, creating a deeper appreciation for rural areas and inspiring them to become ambassadors for countryside living.
Why it matters:
Travelers who experience rural life at its best often return or recommend it to others, creating a ripple effect that supports population retention efforts.
A Vision for the Future
iSlow Coliving is a model for what’s possible in rural revitalization. Through our commitment to families, entrepreneurs, artists, and travelers, we’re creating a vibrant, sustainable community in Costa da Morte.
As we continue to grow, we remain dedicated to our mission: to show that rural areas can be places of opportunity, innovation, and joy. Whether you’re looking to work remotely, start a business, or simply reconnect with nature, iSlow Coliving is here to welcome you.
Ready to discover the potential of rural living? Join us and be part of the change.
