What is LEADER?
LEADER is an EU funding program for rural areas that has existed since 1991 and has been implemented in Austria since its accession to the EU in 1995. The term comes from the French ("Liaison entre actions de développement de l'économie rurale") and stands for the connection between actions for the development of the rural economy. It supports the independent development of rural regions in Europe. The projects are adapted to local needs and conditions in order to utilize the potential of the regions. Funding is based on EU regulations as well as state funds from Austria and Lower Austria in accordance with the "Austrian Rural Development Program 2023 - 2027". In order to receive funding, a region must apply with a local development strategy, which is developed together with citizens and stakeholders.
At the LEADER Region Weinviertel Ost, 58 municipalities from the districts of Mistelbach, Gänserndorf and Korneuburg have joined forces to improve the quality of life in the region.