"Early Support" according to Art. 15a B-VG

Funding under Art. 15a B-VG provides a nationwide basis for the comprehensive provision of early support during pregnancy and early childhood (0–3 years). The goal of this five-year program (01.01.2024–31.12.2028) is the sustainable establishment of needs-based health promotion and early intervention measures that equally consider the burdens and resources of families. A key feature is cross-sectoral and interdisciplinary networking: diverse services, structures, and actors from health care, social services, child and youth welfare, and counseling cooperate according to uniform framework concepts. The 100% grant funding of up to €105 million annually ensures the coordination and qualitative further development of regional networks, supports midwifery and family support services, and strengthens documentation within the electronic FRÜDOK system.

Eligible for funding are public institutions and non-profit organizations that operate regional early support networks and their coordination offices at both federal and state levels. Funding is provided particularly for expenses related to network development, monitoring, financial accounting, documentation, and evaluation. A professional application should demonstrate implementation steps according to the framework concept, reflect reliable project results in FRÜDOK, and explain how sustainability and needs-based service structures are ensured. Evaluation criteria include needs orientation, quality of networking, documentation standards, and sustainability. The funding enables the establishment of a viable infrastructure that supports expectant parents and families in challenging life situations and contributes in the long term to health and social equity of opportunity.