REGIONALE Bergisches RheinLand

The REGIONALEN are a structural funding instrument in North Rhine-Westphalia for implementing regional development strategies and structurally effective projects. The aim of the Bergisches RheinLand 2025 REGIONALE is to enable the more rural region at the interface with the conurbations on the Rhine and the Bergisch city-triangle to develop independently based on its own potential. Strong small and medium-sized enterprises with a strong economic structure and an attractive natural landscape are key to this.

The aim is to implement model solutions for a regionally oriented, resource-conserving economy and the development of innovative value chains for products made from regional, renewable raw materials in dialogue with science, industry and other stakeholders based on the existing resource potential.

For the key future issues of digitalization, Industry 4.0, sustainability / resilience, etc., there is a high demand in the region for application-oriented research and innovation as well as the corresponding infrastructure to research and support the transformation of the region. In addition, the location and attractiveness of the Bergisches RheinLand and the associated effects of visitor pressure require solutions for the coordinated development of the natural environment and settlement structure as well as efficient measures for climate impact adaptation. The call "REGIONALE Bergisches RheinLand - The best of both worlds" supports creative ideas and concepts for the following objectives:

• Expansion of research and innovation (R&I) infrastructure and capacities for the development of R&I excellence
• Development of climate-friendly, urban energy solutions
• Climate adaptation measures at local and regional level for improved risk prevention against climate change impacts
• Resource conservation and development of a circular economy.

The European Union and the state of North Rhine-Westphalia are providing funding totaling around 30.5 million euros for this purpose.