Now what? Space for change: Volunteer initiatives can apply for free use of the IÖW Lab
“We let the change in!” – is the motto of the Lab on the first floor of the Institute for Ecological Economy Research (IÖW). Associations and initiatives can use the rooms for work meetings, workshops, and exchanges with researchers. This allows us to try out new forms of transdisciplinary collaboration and support employees, students, alumni, and groups from the institute's network in their voluntary work. Free spaces are now available again. Groups that are committed to socio-ecological change and are looking for spaces for regular evening meetings can apply now. Please send a brief email to IÖW strategy officer David Hofmann (david.hofmann(at)ioew.de) outlining your goals and current projects, who you would like to work with and how you would like to use the IÖW Lab. We look forward to receiving your application!
From the Food Council to Fossil Free: who uses/used the Lab
Since 2016, we have opened the IÖW Lab to civil society organizations – such as the Berlin Food Policy Council, which provides impulses for Berlin's food policy. This broad alliance of citizens is committed to sustainable food and agricultural policy in the region. Another guest was GreenBuzz Berlin. The non-profit association invites people to events or researches and blogs online on sustainability topics. We also supported the interdisciplinary working group for socio-ecological time research (Zeitpioniere) of the Association for Ecological Economy Research with an invitation to the IÖW Lab.
The Fossil Free Berlin initiative is currently using the Lab. It is calling for investors and politicians to divest from the coal, oil, and gas industries. The climate protection activists are part of a global network of over 1,300 fossil-free groups on all continents. Donut Berlin is brand new to the Lab. The association is committed to a donut economy according to Kate Raworth, which is ecologically and socially just, organized in a collaborative and distributive way and aims to regenerate people and nature.
Knowledge that works in practice: Who can apply
We invite voluntary, non-profit initiatives with a focus on socio-ecological issues in business and society and a connection to the IÖW's research topics. Do you have a common goal or project for at least one year and are looking for an exchange with IÖW researchers? Then apply for a place in the Lab.
Inspiring work: What the IÖW Lab offers
The Lab is suitable as a space for regular meetings or special events with up to 25 people. We offer:
- Free use
- 35 square meters on the first floor of the centrally located IÖW with good public transport connections, view of the green IÖW backyard
- Your own keys
- Couch, chairs, stools, tables
- Lockable compartments for material
- Wi-Fi
- Kitchenette, toilet
- Address for post (if required)
- Fair and transparent rules of use
