EAFRD 2023-2027: Village and Town Centre Promotion

The EAFRD funding program “Village and Town Centre Support” assists private individuals, businesses, and public institutions in Burgenland, Carinthia, Lower Austria, Upper Austria, Salzburg, Styria, Tyrol, Vorarlberg, and Vienna with investments aimed at the revitalization, renovation, or conversion and extension of vacant or underutilized buildings as well as public spaces in village and town centres. The goal is the sustainable revitalization of rural centres, the strengthening of local social and economic infrastructure, and the prevention of additional land consumption on settlement edges. Grants of up to 65% of the net investment costs are available for eligible projects; the minimum funding amount is €10,000 and the maximum is €1,000,000. Construction and renovation measures as well as planning and consulting costs are eligible for funding, whereas non-cash contributions are excluded. Applications must be submitted by 31 December 2027 via the AMA Digital Funding Platform and require an integrated urban development concept, proof of vacancy or underutilization, and location within the defined village or town centre boundary.

The selection of projects eligible for funding is carried out using nationwide uniform evaluation criteria and takes into account the fulfillment of all funding requirements. Interested project sponsors must submit, in addition to the DFP application, a cost and financing plan, site plans, and photographic documentation. The funding is particularly aimed at projects that generate a tangible added value for the common good and are anchored in existing development concepts. By specifically supporting renovation and repurposing measures, the program makes a significant contribution to the revitalization of village and town centres and promotes sustainable local development within the framework of the national CAP Strategic Plan 2023–2027.