EU funding revitalizes Western Pomerania: 13 new projects start in 2026!

EU funding revitalizes Western Pomerania: 13 new projects start in 2026!

A lot is happening in the LEADER region “Western Pomerania Coast”! On November 25, 2025, at the most recent meeting of the Local Action Group (LAG), the green light was given for a total of 13 new projects that are to be implemented in the coming year. These initiatives are poised to spruce up the region with fresh ideas and resources and involve an investment of around 1.9 million euros. Of this, around 1.5 million euros will be covered by EU funding from the LEADER program. The remaining 20 percent comes from public co-financiers such as municipalities, churches and the state.

The projects cover a wide spectrum - from social infrastructure to education and culture, to health and tourism. A highlight of the initiative is the construction of a new village community center with shops and meeting rooms in Pulow. In addition, the historic village barn in Liepe is being renovated to create space for community activities.

Diversity of projects

Particular attention is also being paid to the “Lütt Matten” elementary school in Wusterhusen, where a “green classroom” will be created. This is not only a benefit for the students, but also promotes outdoor education. New rest and relaxation points are planned in the Lieper Winkel, which will be equipped with benches, tables and information boards in order to offer both locals and visitors a place to relax.

In Pulow, the municipality is also planning to set up a branch for a family doctor's practice with a therapy room, which will significantly relieve the burden on the local health service. In Heringsdorf, a mobile community nurse with a health mobile will be used, which will offer support in addition to the existing doctor's practices. Significant investments are also being made in the municipality of Benz: information points with seating and bicycle racks are being built here to make the rural area even more attractive.

Another exciting project is the reconstruction of the historic pilot tower on the Peenestrom in Wolgast, which is intended to increase the tourist attractiveness of the region. Katzow benefits from an energy-efficient sports hall, and the community center in Kemnitz is being upgraded with mobile equipment. Ultimately, space for peace and reflection will be created in Hanshagen to enable residents to have a pleasant break.

Opportunities for citizens and clubs

A major advantage of LEADER funding is the bottom-up approach, which involves local actors and gives them the opportunity to contribute their own project ideas. Citizens, associations and initiatives are invited to submit their suggestions in the areas of infrastructure, regional products, culture, health and encounters. This not only ensures creative solutions, but also active participation by the village communities.

In order to strengthen the interests of rural areas, the LEADER program was launched by the European Union in 1991. It supports sustainable projects that provide innovative and economic stimulus. The focus is on promoting inter-municipal cooperation and developing strategies that address current challenges such as demographic change and climate change. Further information about funding opportunities and project applications can be found on the program's official website, where interested parties can receive comprehensive advice.

The Western Pomerania region is once again proving to be a place where fresh ideas and a sense of community come together. It will be exciting to see how the projects develop and what positive changes they will bring for citizens! Further details about EU funding and the LEADER initiative can be found at Nordkurier, the funding database and on the website of the Federal Ministry for Rural Development.