Hesse Eases GEMA Burden on Volunteer Clubs with 650,000 Euro Relief

Hesse's GEMA exemption lets clubs focus on their mission. Over 1,900 clubs have already benefited, saving 208,952 euros by September 2025.

, and Administrator

2025 October 14 . 6:03 AM

1 min read

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Hesse Eases GEMA Burden on Volunteer Clubs with 650,000 Euro Relief

The state of Hesse has introduced a GEMA exemption for volunteer work, providing relief to clubs and organizations. This initiative, a key project of the state government, honors the dedication of tens of thousands of volunteers. In 2025, over 650,000 euros have been allocated for this purpose.

The GEMA exemption allows clubs to focus on their primary tasks and invest saved money in club activities. Clubs and volunteer organizations can use this exemption up to four times a year to have GEMA costs for their events covered by the state. By September 8, 2025, over 1,900 clubs and organizations have settled around 3,000 events via the flat-rate contract, amounting to 208,952 euros. The 'association solution' enables associations to receive GEMA fees for their clubs from the state on a flat-rate basis. This exemption benefits clubs and organizations across the state, from Fulda to Limburg-Weilburg.

The state of Hesse provides up to 400,000 euros per year for the flat-rate contract with GEMA. The GEMA exemption for volunteer organizations in Hesse was introduced in January 2025.

The GEMA exemption in Hesse has proven beneficial, with numerous clubs and organizations utilizing the relief. The state's commitment to supporting volunteer work is evident in the significant funds allocated. While the impact on other German states is unclear, the success in Hesse suggests potential for wider adoption.