LEADER is a French abbreviation that translates as "link between actions for the development of the rural economy". Financed by the EU and supplemented by funds from the federal government, federal states and local authorities, the aim is to enable people in rural areas to develop their region together.
Consisting of the joint municipalities of Baddeckenstedt, Elm-Asse, Oderwald, the municipality of Schladen-Werla and parts of the towns of Goslar, Salzgitter and Wolfenbüttel, the Northern Harz Foreland region has been working together successfully for many years as part of integrated rural development (ILE). Recognition as a LEADER region followed in December 2022. This means that funds amounting to €3.65 million are available for the 2023-2027 funding period.