State Funds for Early Childhood Education in Municipalities (Future Fund)

With the state funds for early childhood education at municipalities (Future Fund), the state of Vorarlberg supports Vorarlberg municipalities in securing and expanding their early childhood education services. Eligible for funding are public institutions of Vorarlberg municipalities that are active in the field of early childhood education. As a direct grant, up to €12 million per year from genuine state funds are mobilized to fully compensate the net expenses reported in the previous year's financial statement. The funding covers the specialist areas of education, children and youth, as well as training & further education and labor & social affairs, providing municipal authorities with planning security. The funding period runs from October 1, 2024, to December 31, 2028, with disbursements automatically made at the beginning of each year based on the audited financial statement, without the need to submit a separate application.

Eligible are all public Vorarlberg municipalities whose income statement in the area of early childhood education shows a negative balance in subsections 240–249. Only the net expenses and associated in-kind services are funded. The audited annual financial statements of the municipalities serve as proof and form the basis for the grant. This automated procedure minimizes administrative effort and strengthens quality development in early education. The funds are provided within the framework of an annual resolution of the state government in accordance with § 23 FAG 2024 and contribute to ensuring comprehensive and high-quality care services. A total of up to €60 million is available during the funding period, with up to €12 million disbursed annually. Contact persons for questions regarding the procedure and accounting are provided by the Office of the Vorarlberg State Government, Department of Financial Affairs, ensuring transparent processing in accordance with applicable funding guidelines.