The contribution of agritourism to social innovation and sustainable development in the rural areas of the Portuguese Beja region

Abstract

Background: Nowadays, agritourism constitutes an alternative activity to traditional agriculture, fostering socioeconomic dynamics and promoting social innovation in rural territories. Research objectives: This study aimed to analyze the contribution of agritourism to social innovation and sustainable development in rural areas of the Beja region (Portugal). Research design and methods: Methodology followed a qualitative case study approach, involving eight microenterprises. The study involved the analysis of data collected through semi-structured interviews with the companies’ managers to validate a theoretical model based on two key propositions. These premises assume that agritourism businesses contribute to social innovation and the region’s sustainable development. Results: The results show a consensus on the environmental, economic, and social contributions of agritourism, while perceptions regarding social innovation revealed some variability. Nevertheless, the analysis validated the defined propositions. Conclusions: Findings suggest an overall positive effect of agritourism on the region, supporting its relevance as a driver of sustainable development and social innovation.