Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania: Economic development will be more regional and sustainable in the future

New rules apply to the promotion of the regional economy in Germany from January 1st.

Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania: Economic development will be more regional and sustainable in the future

New rules apply to the promotion of the regional economy in Germany from January 1st. In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, too, regional supply chains are to be strengthened and sustainable investments supported.

Schwerin (dpa/mv) - The reformed economic development for structurally weak regions is focusing on regional value chains and sustainable management for the new year. "What's new is that companies can now also be supported that are involved in regional value chains with their goods and products," said Economics Minister Reinhard Meyer (SPD) on Friday in Schwerin.

According to the agreement reached between the federal and state governments in December on the "joint task to improve the regional economic structure" (GRW), investments that benefit environmental protection are also provided with higher funding rates.

The difference is clear: while subsidy rates of 15, 25 or 35 percent apply in principle - depending on the size of the company - the transformation towards a climate-neutral and sustainable economy will in future be considered at 45, 55 or up to 65 percent. Small businesses with up to 49 employees each receive the highest proportion of funding.

But not only the companies, but also the so-called business-related infrastructure is included in the reorientation - this also includes the green industrial areas funded by the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. While a maximum rate of 60 percent is generally provided, this can rise to up to 90 percent if the investment is part of an inter-municipal cooperation, makes a contribution to climate neutrality or helps to secure skilled workers.

Part of the new principles is that companies are required to be bound by collective agreements for certain projects. "Good pay is the basis for securing skilled workers in companies. The availability of skilled workers has become a serious competitive factor for companies," said Meyer.