Austria launches 500,000 euro fund for regional tourism projects

The Austrian Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs, Energy and Tourism has launched a new funding initiative titled ‘Regional Future Perspectives in Tourism’. With a total budget of 500,000 euros, the program aims to support projects that enhance local population acceptance, foster regional cooperation, and improve the quality of life in tourism-heavy areas.

As part of the ‘Vision T’ strategic program, the initiative seeks to balance economic value with the needs of residents, municipalities, and local businesses. This approach addresses growing tensions in alpine and rural regions caused by infrastructure pressure, changing leisure habits, and rising housing costs.

The program covers up to 80 percent of eligible material and investment costs. Individual project costs must range between 10,000 and 50,000 euros. Eligible applicants include consortia of at least three small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the tourism and leisure sector, non-profit institutions, and local tourism associations. Applications require formal letters of support from the relevant local municipality and regional tourism organization. The deadline for submissions is November 15, 2026.