Green Infrastructure

The funding measure supports near-natural and nature-based projects in North Rhine-Westphalia to strengthen biodiversity as well as the connectivity of ecologically valuable areas within settlements and their immediate surroundings. Targeted are municipalities, municipal institutions, companies, research and educational institutions, as well as associations and foundations that wish to implement investment projects for the preservation, restoration, enhancement, and networking of green infrastructure. The grant, funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, can be applied for continuously since October 23, 2023. The maximum project duration is 36 months, with completion expected by the end of 2028.

Eligible are projects located in North Rhine-Westphalia that promote ecosystem services and demonstrate direct integration into overarching planning frameworks. Funding is provided, for example, for the creation of open land areas, near-natural water bodies and wetlands, woody structures, the de-sealing of surfaces, as well as ancillary construction costs (up to 14.7% of eligible construction expenses) and planning services according to HOAI up to service phase 6. Projects exclusively serving climate adaptation or nature tourism are not funded. Eligibility for funding is assessed based on criteria such as implementation strategy, efficiency of resource use, model character, contribution to the NRW biodiversity strategy, gender equality, and improvement of quality of life. For the application, a project description, a cost and financing plan, proof of integration into overarching concepts, and documentation on project continuation after the funding period are required. Applications are processed by the district governments in the order of receipt.