EU Funding for Folk Culture Projects - LEADER

The EU funding program for folk culture projects – LEADER is aimed at associations, initiatives, and public institutions in the rural areas of Styria dedicated to the vibrant preservation of regional traditions. The goal is the sustainable support of living customs, the preservation of tangible and intangible cultural heritage, as well as the strengthening of regional development work in the youth and folk culture sectors. Projects in the fields of culture, regional development, culture & media, and agriculture & rural development are funded. The funds originate from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and are granted as non-repayable subsidies. Special emphasis is placed on innovative approaches that make cultural heritage tangible for future generations and actively involve the local community.

Applications can be submitted continuously and are processed through the responsible departments of the Styrian Provincial Government. A prerequisite is a contribution to the implementation of the Regional Development Strategy (LES) and a positive resolution by the project selection committee of the Local Action Group (LAG). Furthermore, the objectives of the regional guiding framework must be met, and the implementation must take place within the defined LEADER area. The professional evaluation by Departments 17 (State and Regional Development) and 9 (Culture, Europe, External Relations/Folk Culture Division) forms the basis for approval. Interested cooperation partners from youth and customs initiatives receive extensive support in concept development. This funding not only strengthens cultural heritage but also promotes networking among actors in rural areas.