What is LEADER?

LEADER stands for active participation, a strong European network of regions and targeted support for rural development. Local people play a central role: they actively shape innovative projects in areas such as the economy, the environment, tourism and social infrastructure.
What makes LEADER special are the Local Action Groups (LAGs). They decide for themselves which projects to fund in order to strengthen their region in a targeted manner. This gives rise to creative solutions, new partnerships and strong networks that make rural areas a great place to live and ensure their economic sustainability.

LEADER fact box for Austria

LEADER fact box Austria - figures & impact:

• 83 LEADER regions are actively shaping the future of rural areas in Austria. In the current, shortened 5-year programme period (2023–2027), around 210 million euros in funding Ready.
• Citizen participation as a basic principle: Each LEADER region is managed by a Local Action Group (LAG). At least 51 per cent of the LAG’s members are representatives of civil society, whilst a maximum of 49 per cent are political representatives. Their work is supported by a professional LAG management team of between 2 and 5 staff members, which over 200 skilled jobs across Austria in rural regions.
• Investments that strengthen rural areas: On average, around 5,000 LEADER projects in a funding period implemented by local authorities, private initiatives and businesses. In total, this results in around 500 million euros into sustainable regional development.
• Broad-based commitment: Around 7,000 volunteers from local authorities, businesses and civil society. Together with project organisers and staff, this means that a total of around 10,000 people are actively involved in shaping the rural landscape.
• A strong European dimension: LEADER is a key pillar of EU regional development. Around 2,700 Local Action Groups (LAGs) cover 61 % of the rural population in the EU from.
• Wide range of financing options: LEADER is largely funded by EU grants from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), supplemented by national and regional funding. In addition, there are LAGs that also receive support from other EU funds, such as the ERDF (urban development and neighbourhood management), the ESF (Social Fund) or the EMFAF (Fund for Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Regions).

The three roles of LEADER

1. funding advice centre - trailblazer for regional projects

LEADER supports regional stakeholders in assessing ideas and projects quickly and efficiently – always in line with the local development strategy. This includes comprehensive advice on funding, as well as support for approved projects during implementation and financial settlement. The Local Action Group (LAG) makes independent decisions on projects relevant to LEADER. A professional LAG management team, comprising at least two people with an office in the region, ensures that projects receive targeted support and are successfully implemented.

2. network centre - connection point for cooperation and innovation

A LAG actively promotes the development of regional and transnational networks in which economic and personal relationships are intertwined. The principle here is that social capital strengthens economic capital. Key stakeholders with specific expertise or strategic positions within the region help to maximise the impact and reach of LEADER projects. At the same time, the LAG acts as a regional networking hub – it represents regional initiatives at EU, federal and state level, disseminates strategic information and serves as a platform for innovation. Its services include methodological advice, organisational support, the initiation of collaborations and the facilitation of public funding for the implementation of projects.

3. socially innovative company - LAG as an active creator

In addition to providing funding advice, a LAG may also undertake entrepreneurial activities itself – particularly in strategically important areas where there is a shortage of suitable project managers. As a driver of innovation, the LAG develops its own projects and promotes transnational cooperation within the European network. It provides pre-financing, seeks co-funders, manages content and the budget, and bears responsibility for implementation. To successfully shape transformation processes in the region, the LAG relies on innovation and participatory processes. These include skills such as creativity techniques, facilitation and communication strategies – all with the aim of solving regional challenges and initiating sustainable development.