Cooperation in Public Local Passenger Transport in Thuringia (Public Transport Cooperation Guideline)

The funding program of the State of Thuringia targets cooperations of transport companies and public transport authorities (ÖPNV) as well as fare and transport associations or alliances. In certain cases, associations may also receive funding. The program aims to increase the efficiency of public transport, tap into new passenger potential, enhance attractiveness, and make public transport sustainable for the future.

The program funds a variety of projects aimed at strengthening cooperation and attractiveness in public transport, especially personnel expenses, development of digital and analog passenger information media, marketing activities, studies and expert opinions, and the creation of local transport plans. Furthermore, expenses for the introduction of flexible on-demand services are also supported.

The program grants non-repayable subsidies as co-financing. The funding rates vary between 30 percent and 70 percent of the eligible expenses, depending on the type of project. For personnel expenses, a maximum amount of 1.1 million euros per cooperation per year is set. Projects with eligible expenses lower than 5,000 euros are not funded.

Applicants must meet certain legal, content-related, and financial requirements to receive funding. These include the obligation to improve cooperation in public transport, strengthen the image of public transport, align with cooperation goals, and ensure the financial viability of the project. Special regulations apply to the creation of joint local transport plans and compliance with subsidy regulations.

The application procedure is two-stage. First, the project must be registered, after which it may be included in a funding program. Subsequently, the actual application is submitted. The selection of projects is discretionary based on the achievement of objectives.

The legal basis for this funding program is the Public Transport Cooperation Guideline of December 21, 2023. This guideline is supplemented by further state and federal legal provisions that regulate the awarding and administration of grants. Official documents and forms are accessible via the website of the approving authority.