Saxony simplifies economic development

In order to facilitate access to funding, the Saxon cabinet has simplified the guidelines for the regional economy. The corresponding federal-state program GRW has been significantly streamlined, said Economics Minister Dirk Panter (SPD) in Dresden. "This will increase the competitiveness of the Saxon economy, secure jobs and create targeted incentives for new investments."

Annual funding of 200 million euros

Around 200 million euros are available in Saxony each year as part of the "Joint Task for the Improvement of Regional Economic Structures" (GRW) funding program. "In this way, we are supporting both the municipalities and the regional economy," said Panter.

The federal and state governments realigned the program at the beginning of the year in order to simplify access to funding. Saxony is now also streamlining the requirements, as Panter said. This was also in response to the needs of the trade unions and employers.

Wholesale no longer excluded

Sectors such as wholesale or certain services are no longer excluded from the funding. For tourism projects, requirements such as proof of classifications and certifications are no longer applicable; instead, a minimum capacity of 15 beds applies. Special Saxon sustainability criteria will also be dispensed with, as these have already been established independently of the funding.

Municipalities are also set to benefit from the simplification. Simplified conditions apply to the development of commercial areas and the revitalization of old sites as part of a pilot project until 2028. Up to 90 percent of the development costs can be subsidized.