German Minister of State for Culture Monika Grütters, Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer and Lord Mayor Sven Schulze today signed the agreement on the joint financing of the European Capital of Culture Chemnitz 2025. This means that a total of around 66 million euros will be provided by the federal government, the state and the city, making up part of the total budget of 91 million euros.
The federal government of Germany will contribute up to 25 million euros, the Free State of Saxony will provide up to 20 million euros and the city of Chemnitz will contribute at least 21.28 million euros. It has also been agreed that at least 30 percent of the funds provided by the Free State are to be used for investment measures.
This agreement serves the realisation of the “European Capital of Culture Chemnitz 2025” programme by the city, including the associated investment measures, marketing and tourism activities, the development of sustainable structures for the city of Chemnitz and the region, and the effective use of the financial resources to be made available. The individual measures are based on the bid book (Bid Book II) of the city of Chemnitz dated 23 September 2020.
The money will go towards the implementation of the artistic programme, such as the Apple Tree Parade or Peace Ride. Places of experience and discovery with a high quality of recreation and stay are to be created around the “City on the River” project. Derelict industrial halls, commercial yards or empty residential buildings are to be transformed – into creative courtyards and studios, thus creating attractive places for start-ups, the creative industries and for Industry 4.0. The former tram depot, which currently houses the Chemnitz Tram Museum, will be converted into a “garage campus” as a development area – also called an intervention area – where the future of mobility will be demonstrated.
Minister of State for Culture Monika Grütters: “Chemnitz is a worthy successor to previous German Capitals of Culture and credibly stands for what Europe is all about: cohesion in diversity. By being named Capital of Culture, Chemnitz will have the opportunity to put its cultural diversity even more in the spotlight and build bridges within the city’s society as well as with people from other regions and countries. Chemnitz and its citizens deserve to have their city perceived as colourful and cosmopolitan. That is why the federal government is very happy to support the city and the Free State of Saxony in implementing this impressive cultural programme.”
Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer: “Now things can really get started. Chemnitz is becoming the stage of Europe. With the financing agreement signed today by three parties, we are creating the preconditions for implementing the diverse cultural and urban development projects listed in Bid Book II in the coming years. With its funding, the Free State of Saxony is committing itself to this fascinating, modern and diverse city and the people who live here. It is an incredible opportunity for Chemnitz, for Saxony and Germany to become even more connected and visible in Europe and the world. I’m looking forward to it.”
Lord Mayor Sven Schulze: “With this funding agreement, a large part of the overall budget is now secured. This creates the basis for making Bid Book II a reality. Many thanks to the federal and state governments. We will show ourselves and our guests what Chemnitz has to offer and what makes the city so special. Chemnitz will be a strong and fascinating host for Europe. The spotlight will also be on the cities and municipalities around Chemnitz. Because the Capital of Culture bid is a prime example of cooperation between city and region. We have created that together. We can be proud of that.”
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