Funding for the Implementation of Small Projects in the STARKES DORF+ Program
The state of Hesse supports volunteer initiatives in rural areas with grants ranging from €1,000 to €7,500 for small projects aimed at enhancing public spaces (funding rate up to 90%). The priority principle applies; applications are possible until the annual budget is exhausted.
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Grant criteria
Funding objective
Support for small projects in rural areas of Hesse aimed at the design and enhancement of public spaces and social meeting places through civic engagement.
Eligible expenses
- Acquisition of seating
- Creation of flower beds
- Installation of playground equipment
- Renovation and maintenance
- Consulting services
Non-eligible expenses
- Ongoing personnel costs
- Retroactive costs
- Institutional funding
- Measures for local recreation
Eligible to apply
- Interest Groups and Other Associations
- Non-profit Organizations
- Cooperatives
- Foundations
Funding requirements
- Initiative (e.g., association, foundation, cooperative)
- Project in rural areas of Hesse
- Promotion of public welfare and social integration
- Own contribution of at least 10% and civic engagement
- Project must not have started yet
Documents required for application
- Project description
- Cost and financing plan
- Quotes/estimates from €1,000
- Official permits
- Proof of location and photos
Evaluation criteria
- Priority of application receipt
- Quality and clarity of the application
- Social added value and orientation towards the common good
- Sustainability aspects
Description
In the "STARKES DORF+" program, the Hessian State Chancellery funds community-oriented small projects that redesign or renovate public spaces, meeting places, and village community centers in rural municipalities of Hesse. Eligible to apply are interest groups, associations, foundations, or cooperatives that have not yet started a project and contribute at least 10% own funds as well as civic engagement. The funding comprises three approaches: project support and consulting (e.g., coaching, expert reports), implementation of small projects (e.g., seating, flower beds, playground equipment, renovation measures), and the establishment of citizen cooperatives. Projects should provide a tangible added value for all residents, have a sustainable impact, and contribute to social cohesion.
Eligible expenses between €1,000 and €7,500 are funded with a subsidy rate of up to 90%. The total project volume must not exceed €15,000. Non-eligible costs include, among others, ongoing personnel expenses, retroactive costs, institutional or remunerated measures. Applications can be submitted digitally until the annual budget is exhausted, with priority given on a first-come, first-served basis. To apply, the following must be submitted: a detailed project description, cost and financing plan, quotes or cost estimates from €1,000, official permits, as well as proof of location and photos. The Hessian State Chancellery reviews applications in order of receipt, based on the quality of the concept, social added value, and sustainability aspects. Upon approval, fund disbursement is flexible, the project duration is limited to 12 months, and proof of use must be submitted six months after project completion.
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