€2.35M in LEADER funding available for public works across Thessaloniki

The calls for proposals form part of the programmes of the Ministry of Rural Development and Food and concern public works and initiatives to be implemented outside the Thessaloniki urban agglomeration, with the aim of addressing the developmental, social and environmental needs of local communities.

“Our goal is to address significant social and development needs throughout the Thessaloniki regional area outside the urban complex through the two new LEADER programmes,” said ANETH Chairman Thomas Vranos, calling on municipalities and potential beneficiaries to prepare and submit mature project proposals.

Under the new programmes, funding will be available for projects involving the establishment or upgrading of childcare centres, sports facilities, cultural centres and other social infrastructure, as well as initiatives aimed at improving services provided to citizens.

The programmes also provide support for actions addressing poverty and social exclusion, the implementation of small-scale public-use projects, the development of recreational and tourism infrastructure, and the organisation of cultural and sporting events.

Eligible actions further include cultural studies, projects for the protection and promotion of the natural environment, and interventions aimed at preventing and addressing risks associated with natural disasters.

The first programme has a public expenditure budget of €1.26 million and covers the municipalities of Volvi, Lagkadas, Thermaikos, Thermi and Pylaia-Chortiatis. The second programme, with a budget of €1.09 million, covers the municipalities of Delta, Chalkidona and Oraiokastro.

Potential beneficiaries include public-sector and broader public-sector bodies, local associations, non-profit organisations, as well as private entities whose statutory objectives are aligned with the actions envisaged under the calls for proposals.

ANETH also announced that information events will be held in all participating municipalities in the coming period to present in detail the participation requirements, eligible expenditures and funding opportunities available under the new programmes.

The new LEADER programmes are expected to contribute to local development, improve social infrastructure and enhance the quality of life of residents in Thessaloniki’s rural and peri-urban areas, leveraging European and national resources to support local communities