SOLE - Special Funding Program for Rural Development

The special funding program "Rural Development" (SOLE) of Saarland supports committed projects aimed at revitalizing rural structures. It is directed at municipalities and other entities that are not designated as local authorities and funds investments in various areas such as buildings and monument preservation, digitalization, environmental/nature conservation, climate protection, infrastructure & urban development, as well as agriculture. By providing grants of up to €20,000 with a funding rate of 65% to 90%, small village shops can be renewed or vacant buildings transformed into vibrant village centers, for example. The program is designed as ongoing funding, allowing flexible applications and thus ensuring continuous development of rural areas.

The program’s objective is to create modern and functional local structures to secure quality of life and basic services in rural areas. To achieve this ambitious funding goal, not only construction and investment costs but also fees, personnel costs, and material expenses are subsidized. This enables participating stakeholders to implement innovative concepts for the repurposing, restoration, and modernization of existing properties. Particular emphasis is placed on integrative measures that preserve the historic building fabric while simultaneously creating future-oriented residential and commercial spaces. Promoting sustainable resource management is also incorporated into the program design by supporting projects in the areas of energy efficiency, digitalization, and environmental protection.

The funding program represents an important financial support for rural regions by assisting municipalities and non-profit organizations in implementing infrastructure measures and revitalizing village centers. In addition to promoting structural modernization, improving basic services—for example, through the expansion of supply and essential services—is also addressed. Through clear guidelines on eligible expenses and the possibility of flexible application submission, SOLE offers a structured framework to sustainably stimulate investments in rural areas. Thus, the program is a significant instrument to actively counter demographic and economic changes in Saarland’s rural regions and to set the course for a future-proof regional development.