Lower Austria Reading Promotion

Under the designation Lower Austrian Reading Promotion, the State of Lower Austria offers continuous funding in the form of grants for projects that strengthen a diverse reading culture and impart reading competence. Applicants from the circle of private individuals, non-profit organizations, companies, educational institutions, interest groups, foundations, and public institutions with primary residence or headquarters in Lower Austria or implementation of the project in Lower Austria may submit applications at any time. The program supports measures in the fields of education, culture, training and further education, as well as culture & media, and is aimed at all generations with a special focus on children, adolescents, and families. The goal is the sustainable anchoring of the key competence of reading as a basis for cultural and democratic participation.

The funding requires a contribution to the objectives of the Lower Austrian Cultural Promotion Act 1996 and regional cultural concepts. Fundable projects must present, in addition to the thematic orientation, a balanced financing plan including own contributions and third-party funding. A variety of formats are supported, such as workshops, reading circles, library cooperations, reading nights, digital reading platforms, or professional studies on reading research. Both innovative concepts and proven formats that open up a creative approach to reading locally are to be supported. Through open submission deadlines and a wide range of possible sponsors, it is ensured that initiatives of all sizes can be realized flexibly and that the reading culture in Lower Austria is sustainably strengthened. Furthermore, the allocation is made with consideration of economy, efficiency, and appropriateness, thereby ensuring transparency and effectiveness in the use of funds.