Promotion of an innovative, intelligent, and green economic transformation in Hesse from funds of the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) in the funding period 2021 to 2027 (ERDF Funding Guideline 21+)

The funding program "Promotion of an innovative, intelligent, and green economic transformation in Hesse" supports initiatives that advance the transition to a CO2-neutral economy by relying on innovative technologies and sustainable measures. With funds from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) for the period 2021 to 2027, the program finances projects in the areas of education & training, consulting, digitalization, energy efficiency, renewable energies, research & innovation, infrastructure, and business financing. In particular, companies, start-ups, universities, research institutions, as well as municipal and public entities in Hesse can benefit from this grant. Through targeted support of research and development projects, pilot and demonstration projects, as well as investments in production-integrated environmental protection, an intelligent and sustainable economic transformation is to be achieved.

Taking into account strict funding requirements—such as the implementation of the project in Hesse and alignment with the objectives of the ERDF program—this funding enables the realization of pioneering measures in the local and regional context. Eligible expenses include personnel costs, material costs, and overhead costs, with the grant generally covering 40 percent of the eligible costs. The evaluation of projects is based on criteria such as the degree of innovation, contribution to climate neutrality, and coherence with ERDF goals. This ensures that submitted projects not only offer economic benefits but also make a significant contribution to the sustainable transformation of companies and infrastructures in Hesse.

The implementation of the funding program is carried out transparently and based on a thorough expert review by appropriate advisory committees and specialist reviewers. By bundling funding and regional investments, the program supports knowledge and technology transfer between research institutions and companies. In doing so, it makes a substantial contribution to strengthening Hesse’s competitiveness as well as improving the ecological footprint. Interested stakeholders are encouraged to realize their innovative ideas within this dynamic funding environment and thus actively help shape the path toward a greener, digitalized, and future-proof economy.