Promotion of Cooperation in Agriculture, Forestry, and the Food Industry

The measure supports innovative joint projects in agriculture, forestry, and the food industry in Thuringia with a non-repayable grant of up to 80% of eligible expenses. The goal is to increase the innovation capacity and competitiveness of regional companies through improved knowledge and technology transfer. Funding is provided particularly for operational groups of the European Innovation Partnership (EIP) "Agricultural Productivity and Sustainability" as well as cooperations for the development of short supply chains, sustainable biomass provision, or the diversification of agricultural activities in social sectors. Applications can be submitted annually until March 31 and must be implemented in Thuringia. Program administration is carried out by the Thuringian Development Bank on behalf of the Thuringian Ministry of Infrastructure and Agriculture and in cooperation with the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).

Eligible participants are small and medium-sized enterprises as well as associations or clubs from agriculture, forestry, and the food industry that collaborate in operational groups or cooperations with at least two economic and/or scientific partners. A written cooperation agreement and proof of partner involvement are required. For the application, a detailed project description, a budget plan, and documents proving the partnership must be submitted. The funding targets actors who jointly work on research, development, or practical implementation of innovative procedures. Through this support, participating companies gain the opportunity to sustainably strengthen their market position and advance future-proof solutions for challenges in rural areas.