Promotion of Regional Development – Integrated Regional Innovation and Development Concepts

The state of Hesse supports regional forums, special-purpose associations, and regional management companies in the development, updating, modernization, and revision of integrated regional innovation and development concepts. The goal is the planning of pioneering structural improvement measures to sustainably strengthen the local economic structure. Projects in GRW or ERDF priority areas of Hesse are funded with a non-repayable grant. The funding amount is generally up to 50% of eligible expenses, and in special cases and when using GRW funds, even up to 75%. Eligible costs include material expenses (e.g., office supplies, publications), travel expenses according to the Hessian Travel Expenses Act, as well as third-party fees for activities such as regional analysis, moderation, or result preparation. The evaluation of completed concepts is based on the degree of innovation, the contribution to regional structural improvement, and the consideration of resource-conserving environmental aspects.

A prerequisite for funding is the independent collaboration of various regional actors as well as the integration of existing concepts. Applications must be submitted before the start of the projects and must include a project outline, the formal application for grant approval, and proof of the funding area and the participating organizations. Since submission is possible on an ongoing basis, interested parties can apply for the grant at any time via the customer portal of the Economic and Infrastructure Bank of Hesse. This funding results in tailored action concepts that contribute to sustainable development and long-term value creation in Hessian regions.