Promotion of the Social Ticket

The state of North Rhine-Westphalia supports the introduction and operation of social tickets in local public transport (ÖPNV) through a grant program. The goal is to improve the mobility of low-income population groups while simultaneously strengthening local public transport. Eligible to apply are districts, independent cities, as well as special-purpose associations or joint institutions established for the purpose of local/regional public transport, which have already established a social ticket offer or can demonstrate an introduction date within the funding year. The approval is decided by the Arnsberg District Government at its due discretion and subject to available budget funds. The funding application must be submitted by September 15 of the previous year and must include a declaration regarding the timing and duration of the social ticket introduction. Payment is made after the grant notice becomes final, in two installments on May 1 and October 1 respectively.

Only costs directly serving the funding purpose for social tickets, which are fully used for price reduction or to cover revenue shortfalls, are eligible for funding. Internal personnel and material expenses, administrative costs, as well as external consulting fees are excluded. The allocation of total funds is based on the proportion of beneficiaries under SGB II and SGB XII in the respective application area. Evaluation primarily considers the already implemented or planned introduction of a social ticket as well as the socioeconomic support needs in the funding area. The application must include the completed social ticket application form, the proof of use (template 3), and the Social Ticket Guidelines 2011. With this program, the state of NRW strengthens the participation of all people in a society shaped by mobility and simultaneously contributes to the future viability of local public transport.