Promotion of Gigabit Expansion of Telecommunications Networks in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania (Gigabit Funding Guideline – GigabitFöRL M-V)

The Gigabit Funding Guideline Mecklenburg-Vorpommern represents a supplementary state funding program that supports public institutions in the implementation of gigabit-capable networks in previously underserved regions. The goal is to increase federal funding to a total subsidy rate of up to 90% of eligible expenses, with the state grant varying between 20% and 40%. Eligible applicants include districts, independent cities, companies solely under public ownership, as well as special-purpose associations. The measure covers the construction and operation of gigabit-capable telecommunications networks as well as the expansion of passive infrastructures – for example, fiber optic routes. Through continuous application submission before project commencement, municipalities and special-purpose associations can flexibly respond to funding opportunities in the areas of digitalization, smart cities, and infrastructure.

A fundamental prerequisite for funding is a completed market exploration procedure confirming that no market-driven expansion is expected. In the operator model, the future operator must be contractually determined. Planning and consulting services are explicitly excluded. Applications may be submitted at any time before the start of the project to the Ministry of the Interior, Construction and Digitalization Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. The Ministry coordinates the procedure and is supported in practical implementation by the Broadband Competence Center Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. The funding guideline not only strengthens digital infrastructure but also significantly contributes to the economic development and attractiveness of rural regions. It assists applicants in raising the supply level at remote locations and implementing innovative projects in the field of smart cities. By clearly defining the funding rates and framework conditions, planning security is created for all parties involved. Flexibility in application submission allows for timely project realization and ensures that Mecklenburg-Vorpommern sustainably benefits from high-performance gigabit networks.