Social Rental Housing Promotion – New Construction of Rental Housing for Student Households and Trainee Households

The funding program for Social Rental Housing Promotion in Hesse supports the development of affordable housing for student households and trainees. Eligible applicants include companies, private individuals, and public institutions that intend to newly construct at least four contiguous residential units or convert existing buildings. Funding covers construction measures including changes of use, expansions, or damage repairs. The grant consists of a low-interest loan ranging from €1,800 to €2,600 per square meter of living space, plus an additional subsidy of 20% or 40% of the approved loan. A minimum self-contribution of 15%, rent price restrictions, and compliance with a maximum living area of 25 m² per residential unit are prerequisites. Equipment standards such as WC, bathroom/shower, cooking facilities, washing machine, and internet connection are mandatory and serve to ensure long-term usability.

Selection is based on local demand, location and quality of the project, as well as the amount of self-contribution. Eligible applicants are natural and legal persons who rent the housing exclusively to applicants with a study certificate or training contract in Hesse. The two-stage procedure begins with a project registration at the responsible housing promotion office and concludes with the application submission to the Economic and Infrastructure Bank of Hesse (WIBank). Required application documents include, in particular, the financing plan, proof of land availability, and a detailed project description. Registration for the year 2025 is closed; a new funding opportunity is expected to be offered from spring 2026. Participants thus benefit from a predictable financing framework and contribute to the sustainable improvement of housing supply in Hesse.