Catalan authorities roll out subsidies to open new shops in rural towns

The Diputació de Lleida presented a €500,000 support plan to boost agri‑shops and multi‑service centres in municipalities with fewer than 2,000 residents. The scheme allocates €200,000 for cooperative‑run agri‑shops and €300,000 for town councils to create or upgrade retail premises, covering up to 50% of costs with a maximum grant of €20,000 per project. It targets about 190 rural municipalities, aiming to ensure at least one point‑of‑sale in each village and to help retain population.

Separately, the town council of Palamós launched a €20,000 grant programme to encourage new retail businesses in currently vacant ground‑floor premises. The funding, available until 31 October 2026, covers up to 50% of investment costs, with a maximum of €3,000 per establishment. Applicants must invest at least €1,000, submit a business plan and meet tax obligations. The grants can be used for renovation, equipment or IT needs, but not for rent or raw materials.