Funding within the framework of the joint task "Improvement of the regional economic structure" (GRW)

The joint task "Improvement of the Regional Economic Structure" (GRW) pools federal and state funds to promote commercial investments, municipal infrastructure projects, and cooperation in structurally weak regions. Nationwide, public institutions and companies can apply for grants of up to 45 percent (infrastructure measures up to 90 percent), provided the investment takes place in a designated GRW area. Examples of funding include the expansion of industrial and commercial areas, the modernization of port facilities, or new energy infrastructures such as renewable electricity storage. Key objectives are the creation and safeguarding of jobs, the promotion of regional structural change, and the acceleration of climate-friendly transformation. The integration of municipal public services and innovative cooperations, for example in technology and start-up centers, strengthens location quality and competitiveness in the long term.

Companies, municipalities, and tax-privileged sponsors in selected funding areas can submit applications continuously to the state authorities. Investments in tangible assets, labor costs, infrastructure measures, consulting fees, and project-related planning and ancillary construction costs are eligible for funding, provided they are carried out within 36 months. Excluded expenses include, among others, replacement acquisitions, construction period interest, land acquisition, and the purchase of motor vehicles. The funding rate varies between 15 and 90 percent depending on company size and funding area. Evaluation criteria include significant regional economic effects, type of establishment, as well as collective bargaining agreements or wage growth. SMEs and large enterprises alike benefit from the GRW, which, as a central national instrument, promotes the equivalent development of economic potential in all regions of Germany.