Joint Task "Improvement of the Regional Economic Structure" (GRW) – Commercial Economy and Business-Related Research Institutions

Using funds from the joint task “Improvement of Regional Economic Structures” (GRW), the state of Thuringia supports business-related research institutions and commercial enterprises in investment projects that promote sustainable growth and employment. The goal is to create or secure permanent jobs, compensate for regional locational disadvantages, and accelerate transformation processes towards a climate-neutral economy. Funding is particularly provided for projects of national economic significance that exceed the average depreciation value of the last three years by at least 50% and achieve an increase in permanent jobs of at least 10% upon completion. New jobs must also be remunerated with an annual gross salary of at least EUR 46,000 (crafts EUR 41,000, tourism EUR 32,000) to ensure a sustainable employment effect.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as well as legally independent, non-profit, business-related, non-university research institutions from Thuringia may submit applications for a non-repayable grant at any time. Eligible expenses include investment costs, construction and initial equipment costs, as well as personnel and administrative expenses. The funding rate varies between 10% and 75% depending on project parameters. Key evaluation criteria are the contribution to the creation and securing of jobs, the compensation of regional imbalances, as well as the sustainability and transformation contribution. Applications are submitted via the online portal of the Thuringian Development Bank, whereby a public participation interest of 25% or more and a high proportion of temporary agency workers (≥ 20%) constitute exclusion criteria. With this funding, Thuringia strengthens its economic structure and creates sustainable prospects for companies and research institutions.