This panel focuses on how international developments, particularly innovative projects funded through directly managed EU resources, contribute to the formation and evolution of local identities. Panelists will explore the impact of EU-backed investments on local communities, examining how these initiatives foster economic growth and innovation while preserving and enhancing local talents and values. The discussion will highlight successful projects that have integrated European trends with local identity, emphasizing the role of directly managed EU funding in driving regional development. Special attention will be given to how these international investments can both strengthen competitiveness and support talent retention in rural areas, ensuring that European and local dynamics work in harmony for sustainable growth.