The potential of cooperative networks to leverage tourism in rural regions

Rural tourism can be an opportunity to perform the development of the most disadvantaged rural areas. In this pursuit, there are many challenges to face for make this sector competitive and economically viable. This paper focuses on develop a better understanding of rural tourism and the need for cooperative paradigms that can leverage its competitiveness. In this context, a conceptual model and a technology-based system is presented to bridge the gap between heritage resources and business opportunities to enable regional development.