Promotion of Regional Development

This program is aimed at a wide range of applicants, including individuals, companies, municipalities, and research institutions, who are implementing projects to strengthen the regional economy and infrastructure in specific Hessian funding areas. The main goal is to promote growth and employment and to cope with structural change in economically weaker parts of the state.

Various projects aimed at strengthening the regional economy and infrastructure in Hesse are funded. This includes investments by companies and municipalities, the development of innovation concepts and regional management, as well as the expansion of start-up centers and tourism offerings. The program supports projects from conception to implementation and also considers the financing of personnel and material services.

Funding is provided as a grant or loan. The amount of support depends on the nature and scope of the project, with minimum amounts set for eligible expenses and grants. Projects can be funded for a limited period, and long-term use is required for infrastructure projects.

Specific conditions and rules apply to applicants and beneficiaries concerning the application process, project implementation, and compliance with state aid regulations. These include, among other things, the necessity to submit applications before the start of the project, the observance of transparency and audit obligations, and compliance with relevant EU state aid rules such as the GBER and De minimis Regulation.

The application for funding must be submitted to Wirtschafts- und Infrastrukturbank Hessen (WIBank) before the project begins. The selection of projects is at the discretion of the granting authority, taking into account available budget funds.

The funding program is based on the guidelines of the State of Hesse for the promotion of regional development and is underpinned by specific state and EU regulations and laws that establish its legitimacy and operational framework.