Rural Development Program (ELR)

The Rural Development Program (ELR) in Baden-Württemberg sustainably promotes the strengthening of rural regions through targeted grants. Aiming to improve living and working conditions in rural areas, the program supports investments in infrastructure projects, housing development, and measures to enhance regional value creation. Public institutions, small and medium-sized enterprises, private individuals, and associations can continuously apply for funding and thus actively shape rural areas in various parts of the state. The funding measure is managed by the Ministry of Food, Rural Areas and Consumer Protection Baden-Württemberg (MLR) and implemented by the four regional administrative authorities in Stuttgart, Freiburg, Karlsruhe, and Tübingen.

Companies and municipalities benefit just as much as private individuals from financial support for construction and infrastructure projects. Examples of funded initiatives include the expansion of village community centers, the modernization of agricultural operations, or projects to improve regional mobility. With continuously open application windows, local needs can be addressed flexibly. The responsible regional administrative authorities provide professional guidance to applicants and review projects in consideration of statewide development strategies. In this way, the program contributes to creating future prospects in rural areas, strengthening regional networks, and securing the attractiveness of the landscape as a residential and business location in the long term.