What is LEADER?
LEADER is the driving force behind the further development of the Weinviertel region.
Behind the abbreviated term "LEADER" lies a regional development initiative that aims to innovatively develop the eastern Weinviertel. To this end, 58 municipalities have joined forces to form the LEADER Region Weinviertel East.
Our fundamental idea is to support the people of the region in strengthening our home, improving the quality of life, and enhancing economic conditions. Here in the Weinviertel, we see ourselves as a platform and networking hub, advising on funding applications and providing creative impetus to develop our home sustainably and innovatively together with our residents. Together, we are a major idea factory for the Weinviertel.
LEADER strengthens rural areas: LEADER stands for participatory regional development. Here, individuals from civil society, the private sector, agriculture, and municipalities work together to find new, innovative solutions to current challenges in the region. The LEADER team advises regional stakeholders to further develop the Weinviertel region innovatively with creative ideas and expert know-how. This provides impetus for making the region even more valuable and livable.
LEADER has been a European Union initiative since 1991. The term comes from French ("Liaison entre actions de développement de l'économie rurale") and stands for the link between actions for the development of the rural economy. It supports the independent development of rural regions in Europe. Funding is based on EU regulations as well as state funds from Austria and Lower Austria in accordance with the "Austrian Rural Development Programme 2023–2027". To receive funding, a region must apply with a Local Development Strategy, which is developed jointly with citizens and stakeholders.