Regional Funding Program - Calls for Implementation of the Economic, Tourism, and Digitalization Strategy

The funding supports time-limited calls and action programs for the implementation of the Lower Austrian economic, tourism, and digitalization strategy. Eligible applicants include commercial enterprises, tourism and leisure businesses, institutions and organizations engaged in applied research, as well as public and non-profit organizations with headquarters or operations in Lower Austria. The focus is on projects in the areas of corporate financing, digitalization, consulting, infrastructure, and smart cities & regions. Up to 100% of eligible costs are covered in the form of a non-repayable grant, with funding rates of 70% (personnel and material costs, overhead, external services) or 100% (planning services) depending on the type of cost. Applications must be submitted prior to the start of the project and can be filed until December 31, 2026.

Expenditures for personnel, material resources, and external services are eligible for funding, while costs for leasing, VAT with input tax deduction, cash payments over €5,000, and invoices under €200 are excluded. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) benefit from attractive funding intensities and a streamlined application process. Allocation is based on economic, strategic, and sustainability criteria to strengthen regional value creation, unlock innovation potential, and further develop Lower Austria as a future-proof economic and tourism location. Applicants must submit, in addition to the application, a project description with attachments, a total cost breakdown, annual financial statements for the last two fiscal years, and proof of any previously applied-for funding. Subsequently, the funding reduction is assessed in a transparent procedure before funding contracts are concluded and funds disbursed.