A Simple but Scalable Response
To address this gap, the Testing Action focused on developing a simple, free and collaborative digital solution, accessible to all municipalities and easy to maintain. But the technological component was deliberately embedded within a broader transformation process.
The Testing Action was structured around four interconnected elements:
- Strengthening the ULG (URBACT Local Group) into a stable, action-oriented team
- Creating a joint cultural platform bringing all events together in one place
- Developing a shared cultural branding for the territory
- Activating a common social media presence
This combination ensured that digital innovation was supported by stronger identity, shared governance and coordinated communication.
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A ULG that Became a Real Network
A key transformation took place within the ULG itself. By bringing together cultural officers and library staff from the ten municipalities, the group evolved from a consultative forum into a functional working network able to co-design and implement joint initiatives.
This was essential to ensure collective ownership: the Testing Action was not only designed together, but also carried by the municipalities.
The new shared cultural website became the visible expression of this collaboration, offering residents a single and intuitive portal where they can explore cultural activities by municipality or by theme.
At the same time, the creation of a shared branding contributed to building a more unified cultural identity across municipalities that traditionally operated independently. The Instagram account @culturahortanord reinforced this by providing a dynamic channel to disseminate cultural content and engage a broader audience.
Tangible Impacts and a Shift in Mindset
The Testing Action has already produced significant impact across l’Horta Nord. Cultural activities are now more visible, easier to navigate, and increasingly discovered beyond municipal boundaries.
Even more importantly, the process sparked a change in mindset among local stakeholders. The ULG became a space for new ideas and renewed motivation, leading to one of the most meaningful outcomes: the decision to establish a permanent cultural coordination board for the territory.
This step represents a structural governance change that goes beyond the initial scope of the Testing Action and confirms its potential for long-term influence.
Towards a Shared Cultural Strategy
The true value of the Testing Action lies not only in its outputs — the platform, branding and social media presence — but in its transformative effect on how culture is managed in the territory. It reshaped working dynamics, strengthened relationships and encouraged municipalities to move from isolated cultural programming towards a shared cultural strategy, one of RECUP’s initial ambitions.
Looking ahead, the idea of “RECUP 2.0” reflects the commitment to consolidating and expanding the progress made. Efforts are already underway to secure additional funding to enhance the digital platform, continue joint programming and reinforce the emerging governance structure.
The experience of l’Horta Nord shows that even simple tools, when combined with strong collaboration and a clear vision, can generate meaningful change — paving the way for the territory to position itself as a cohesive, recognisable and vibrant cultural ecosystem.
photo credit: @mancohortanord