A new legal basis for economic development in the Canton of Lucerne
Lucerne - Voters in the canton of Lucerne have approved the further development of the canton’s economic development policy, with 65.06% voting in favour. The new legislation establishes the legal basis for the Lucerne Innovation Grant (LIB), the development of business sites and the Focus Programme for Economic Development. The new provisions will enter into for
The legislative amendment, approved on 27 September 2026, provides the basis for a broad package of measures to further develop Lucerne as a place to do business and to live. Key areas include support for research, development and innovation, the availability and development of commercial land, and the coordinated implementation of the various economic development measures.
A central new instrument is the Lucerne Innovation Contribution (LIB). It supports companies that invest in research, development and innovation through tax credits or direct financial assistance. Applications are open to companies listed in the commercial register that have staff and premises in the Canton of Lucerne. Requirements include annual financial statements that have undergone a full statutory audit and evidence of sustainable business practices. Applications for the 2026 and 2027 contribution years can be submitted until 31 January 2027.
Information on the LIB and the other measures is available on the canton's economic development website. The canton is also holding two webinars on the LIB: in German on 7 October 2026 and in English on 15 October 2026. Questions about the LIB can be directed to the Department of Spatial Planning and Economic Affairs (rawi) at innovationsbeitrag@lu.ch.
Further information: standortfoerderung.lu.ch
