DestiLink wants to increase the competitiveness of rural regions by creating a network of sustainable tourism development practitioners and researches, and thereby linking the regions with the research community. The aim is to facilitate capacity building in the regions through the exchange of experience and best practice examples. Further aims are to develop efficient destination management tools and to increase the innovation potential in the regions. Achievements: Several work meetings were held during the application process: 06-07/01/04 The first meeting clarified the overall objectives of the project as well as a brainstorm of relevant workshops and project components. Project partners present: Storstroem County, Lund University and Delft University of Technology. Also present: two external consultants. 10-11/03/04 The second meeting focused on establishing the financial management structure, choosing relevant partners and specifying workshops and components. Project partners present: Storstroem County and Lund University. Also present: two external consultants. 19/04/04 The third meeting focused on setting the budget.