Strengthening the social solidarity economy – through networking and transfer

The project supports networking and knowledge transfer in the social solidarity economy in Germany. To this end, the association “Social Solidarity Economy Germany” (German: “Verbund Kooperatives Wirtschaften” – VKW) organizes numerous activities and events. The VKW is an association of networks, umbrella organizations, and disseminators in the social solidarity economy in Germany. The VKW currently represents over 2,000 companies and connects them in a nationwide, cross-sector network. The project gives the VKW the opportunity to expand its unique network for cooperative enterprises in Germany. The IÖW is a founding member of the VKW and contributes to the project with transdisciplinary research on network development. 

The project has the following key objectives: to initiate a dynamic exchange between companies and sectors in the social solidarity economy, to raise the profile of cooperative business practices, and to disseminate innovations. One focus is on promoting climate-friendly practices in companies. The IÖW uses scientific analyses to develop insights that can be used for the further development of the network. To this end, the research team is investigating needs and good practices among VKW member organizations, transfer opportunities for innovative practices, and the potential added value of international networking. 

As a result of the project, we expect the VKW to grow and aim to expand it by at least three additional networks. In addition, the organizational structures and exchange processes within the VKW are to be further developed so that the alliance achieves independent working and development capabilities beyond the project period.