Innovative local supply: millions of projects for rural future!

Innovative local supply: millions of projects for rural future!

Thaya, Österreich - On August 13, 2025, Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner and WKNÖ President Wolfgang Ecker published a half-time record of the NAFES funding period, in which they emphasize the importance of securing local supply in rural areas. So far, 85 projects have been supported with more than 1.3 million euros in funding, which corresponds to an investment volume of around 4.7 million euros. The Nafes, the Lower Austrian Working Group to promote purchasing in urban and town centers, aim to improve the shopping offer in rural regions.

mikl-Leitner underlines the need for innovative supply models to increase flexibility when shopping and to ensure the quality of life in these areas. In particular, it mentions the development of hybrid models, in which shops are occupied by staff during the day and are operated as a self -service shop during outskirts. Ecker adds that the industry mix changes in the town center. There is an increasing presence of craft businesses, service providers as well as gastronomic facilities and niche providers. This is a sign of professional location management that can minimize vacancies.

challenges and solutions for local supply

The current situation also shows that there are significant challenges. Numerous small villages with less than 2,500 inhabitants have both qualitative and quantitative gaps in local supply. A study by BBE trade advice shows that innovative approaches such as hybrid concepts, civic initiatives and cooperation with cooperatives bring dynamic changes in rural areas. Oliver Ohm, regional manager at BBE, reports on a recognizable demand and the occupation of existing niches through digital innovations.

Another concept that uses automated systems are smart stores to reduce costs and make the operation more efficient. Sales machines also offer a constantly available supply alternative, especially in structurally weak areas.

examples of successful projects

One of the successful examples of the Nafes is the project in Thaya, where an existing business has been expanded to an hybrid market that is accessible 72 hours a week. In Margraphneusiedl, a local supplier was successfully converted into a modern self-service business with a coffee corner. These projects show how important support is in the development and implementation of innovative local supply concepts.

In addition to the NAFES projects, initiatives such as "Land-provided-new ways to local supply in rural areas exist", supported by the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL). The aim is to ensure general interest in rural regions, which often have difficulty covering the need appropriately. Numerous model projects, for example the "Altmühl-Jura Regional Digital" in Bavaria and "Smart-Emma" in Rhineland-Palatinate, show promising approaches to improve local supply through technical innovations and sustainable concepts.

Overall, local supply in rural areas is an important topic that not only influences the quality of life of the residents, but also the structure and economy of the companies on site. Continuous development and adaptation to the needs of the population are crucial.

For more details on the Nafes and the current projects, please visit the website of Lower Austria . You can find out more about innovative concepts in local supply at bmel .