Funding of measures for climate-friendly and environmentally sustainable vehicles as well as sustainable mobility services in public local transport (Flexible service forms)

The funding program “Support for Measures for Climate-Friendly and More Environmentally Friendly Vehicles as Well as Sustainable Mobility Offers in Public Transport (Flexible Service Forms)” is aimed at public institutions and companies in Lower Saxony. It supports innovative concepts and flexible service forms in public transport to create alternative, more environmentally friendly transport options and reduce fossil-fueled individual traffic. The focus is particularly on objectives such as increasing the attractiveness of public transport, developing feasibility studies, and establishing digitally supported on-demand services. The program promotes sustainable mobility development that addresses both climate-relevant challenges and socioeconomic needs.

The funding project grants a non-repayable subsidy, the amount of which ranges between 40% and 60% of eligible expenses depending on the regional category – with a maximum of €600,000. Examples of eligible measures include the operation of flexible service forms, operating costs of alternative transport offers, as well as extensive planning and feasibility studies. A prerequisite is that applicants operate within the program area of Lower Saxony, that the entire project financing is secured, and that necessary approval documents are submitted. The evaluation of the project is based on strict quality criteria, which consider aspects such as the level of innovation, economic efficiency, and proof of CO₂ savings. Furthermore, the funding conditions include coordination with existing regional transport offers and the openness of the project for public use.

With a project duration of up to 36 months, the program offers an attractive opportunity to optimize existing mobility networks and implement innovative, community-based transport concepts. The funding is directed at both municipal transport providers and independent cities as well as private providers of passenger transport services. The support aims not only to improve the framework conditions for future-oriented public transport but also to provide new impulses for energy efficiency and sustainable urban development. Interested project sponsors receive detailed advice from the Investment and Development Bank of Lower Saxony (NBank), which supports applicants throughout the entire application process and assists them with all funding-related questions.