Bretten, Germany – A nearly €2 million investment from the state of Baden-Württemberg will bolster a range of community projects across the region, officials announced today, March 3, 2026. The funding, allocated through the state’s Entwicklungsprogramm Ländlicher Raum (ELR), or Rural Development Program, will support initiatives in Bretten, Kraichtal, Oberderdingen, and Zaisenhausen, focusing on inner-city development, essential services, and infrastructure improvements. This investment is part of a larger, statewide commitment of €112.4 million for rural development projects this year, supporting over 1,100 initiatives across Baden-Württemberg.
The ELR program aims to strengthen the vitality of rural communities by preventing urban sprawl, improving quality of life, and fostering economic growth while prioritizing environmental and climate protection. The program provides funding for municipal, private-commercial, and private projects, with a particular emphasis on renovating existing structures and revitalizing town centers. A key component of the ELR focuses on housing, offering subsidies for the conversion of vacant buildings, comprehensive home renovations, and filling in building gaps – though modern single-family home construction is not eligible for funding.
Oberderdingen Receives Largest Share of Funding
Oberderdingen will receive the largest portion of the regional funding, totaling €1,383,495. A significant €1,136,135 will be directed towards inner-city development and housing initiatives within the town center. Additional funds – €174,960 – are earmarked for projects supporting essential services in Flehingen and Sickingen, while a further €72,400 will be invested in inner-city development in Großvillars. The program offers a standard subsidy rate of 30% for owner-occupied housing projects, with maximum amounts varying based on the type of renovation or conversion. Modernizations, conversions, and extensions are eligible for up to €50,000 per dwelling unit, while conversions can receive up to €60,000. New construction of owner-occupied units in multi-family buildings is eligible for up to €30,000 per unit.
Funding Breakdown for Other Municipalities
Bretten is set to receive €311,040, which will be allocated to projects in Büchig, Rinklingen, and Sprantal, encompassing improvements to housing, workplaces, and community facilities. Kraichtal will benefit from €286,630, supporting projects in Bahnbrücken, Menzingen, Neuenbürg, and Unteröwisheim, as well focused on inner-city development and housing. Zaisenhausen will receive a smaller allocation of €11,280, dedicated to inner-city development measures.
Supporting Rural Livelihoods and Infrastructure
The ELR program isn’t solely focused on housing. It also prioritizes securing local access to goods and services, a critical component of maintaining vibrant rural communities. The funding supports projects that strengthen local businesses and infrastructure, ensuring residents have access to essential amenities. According to the program guidelines, available through the Ministry for Rural Affairs and Consumer Protection Baden-Württemberg website, the program aims to create sustainable, livable spaces in rural areas.
Legislators Welcome Investment
Landtagsabgeordneten Ansgar Mayr (CDU) and Andrea Schwarz (Grüne) jointly praised the funding decision, emphasizing the importance of preserving Baden-Württemberg’s rural areas. “Baden-Württemberg has a strong rural area. We want to maintain this in the future,” they stated, highlighting the program’s role in strengthening town centers, creating housing opportunities, and supporting local infrastructure. The legislators underscored the program’s broader goal of ensuring the long-term attractiveness and viability of rural regions.
The state’s commitment to the ELR reflects a broader strategy to address the challenges facing rural communities, including population decline, aging infrastructure, and limited access to services. By investing in these areas, Baden-Württemberg aims to create more resilient and sustainable communities for the future.
The next step in the ELR process involves the implementation of these projects by the respective municipalities, with ongoing monitoring and evaluation by the state government. Further updates on the program’s progress and future funding opportunities will be available on the Ministry for Rural Affairs and Consumer Protection Baden-Württemberg website.
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