Commercial Tourism Promotion 2023-2027 - Liabilities

Commercial tourism promotion in Vienna provides small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the tourism and leisure industry with access to investment loans through an innovative guarantee policy. The aim of this guarantee initiative is to facilitate external financing by assuming guarantees for loans ranging from at least €100,000 up to a maximum of €4 million. Investments in tangible and intangible assets such as buildings, equipment, machinery, or software are supported. The guarantee rate amounts to up to 80% of the loan amount, significantly reducing the risk for lending institutions. SMEs according to the EU definition with a business location in Austria and membership in the Federal Division for Tourism and Leisure Industry may submit applications until December 31, 2027. Essential requirements include orderly accounting, creditworthiness and capacity, as well as the submission of a complete financing plan without pre-approved loans prior to application.

Before submitting an application, the investment requirement relevant for funding must be precisely defined and documented in the electronic funding portal. Necessary forms and guideline documents are available on the website of the Austrian Hotel and Tourism Bank GmbH (oeht.at). A decision issued following risk assessment contains detailed information on term, interest rate, and collateral. During the term, the liable institutions must submit regular reports on annual financial statements, investment progress, and economic development. Federal funds are allocated transparently in accordance with applicable EU state aid law. This program sustainably strengthens the competitiveness and resilience of tourism enterprises in Vienna and supports them in implementing future-oriented modernization projects.