The role of the NRP and the IBR in promoting regional development: As part of the New Regional Policy (NRP), the Institute of Business and Regional Economics IBR at Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts implements innovative projects that sustainably strengthen the economic dynamism and quality of life in Swiss regions.
The New Regional Policy (NRP) and the Institute for Business and Regional Economics IBR at Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts are implementing innovative projects that sustainably strengthen the economic dynamism and quality of life in Swiss regions. This article highlights the active involvement of regional stakeholders and the specific projects that are currently being implemented to offer measurable benefits to the participating municipalities.
New Regional Policy (NRP) - What exactly is it?
Switzerland’s New Regional Policy (NRP) is a government funding program that aims to strengthen economic competitiveness and innovation in rural, mountainous and border regions. This is done by supporting projects that increase local added value and create new jobs, which should also reduce regional disparities ( SECO, 2024 ).
Participation at local level
Regions and municipalities participate in the NRP by developing and implementing projects tailored to specific local needs in close cooperation with the federal government and the cantons. The cantons play a decisive role as they are responsible for the conceptualization, financing and implementation of the projects. This cooperation also includes coordination with other sectoral policies and the coordination of initiatives at regional level ( regiosuisse, 2024 ).
The Institute of Business and Regional Economics IBR at Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts is involved in various projects within the framework of the NRP. These are currently as follows:
Attractive orientation design for visitors to the UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch (U BE)
The UBE pursues a decentralized approach to tourism with worlds of experience. However, some of the attractions appear to be little known, although many of the routes are already signposted. The aim of the project is to generate a concept that informs interested parties about offers before their visit and is linked to signage that helps visitors find their way around. ( regiosuisse, 2024 )
Preliminary project for youth development 16plus
Youth work in the Wolhusen region and Schüpfheim-Flühli-Sörenberg are evaluating the needs, concerns and visions of young adults between the ages of 16 and 22. The aim of the project is to identify the need for new youth development measures in the Entlebuch valley and in the Wolhusen region including Werthenstein. ( regiosuisse, 2023 )
Preliminary project for village space development in Schwarzenberg
As a result of construction work, a new area has been created in Schwarzenberg which is to be used by the local population. Ideas are to be developed and fleshed out in workshops involving relevant interest groups such as the school, Jubla, sports clubs and the senior citizens’ association. The overarching aim of this preliminary project is to develop an implementation plan. ( regiosuisse, 2023 )
Concrete energy transition - Malters & Schwarzenberg platform
The project promotes cooperation between various players in the energy sector, uses proven local models and thus lays the foundation for an energy transition supported by the population. In workshops, municipalities, cooperatives, energy suppliers and the business community exchange ideas and potential for additional local renewable energy production. Strategic and operational preparations enable the realization of promising projects. ( regiosuisse, 2023 )
What are the benefits for the regions and the partners?
The benefits of such projects for the regions and the partners involved are manifold. They not only promote the local economy through innovation and entrepreneurship, but also contribute to maintaining the quality of life in the regions by creating jobs and strengthening regional identity. The NRP also helps to maintain Switzerland’s decentralized population and supports the sustainable development of the regions involved.
