Baden-Württemberg, Germany

Smart Economy

As an initial step, a feasibility study is carried out to provide meaningful support for the implementation process of an Innovation Lab. Based on the results of the feasibility study, the Innovation Lab will be designed to provide maximum benefit to people living and working in Löffingen. One conceivable use would be to establish Coworking spaces, that offer the framework conditions for new flexible forms of work. In addition, a “tinkerer's workshop" or a "repair café" could provide citizens the opportunity to learn how to use technologies in a self-determined way and thus actively participate in shaping smart digitization. As part of the feasibility study, a survey was conducted to determine the needs in Loeffingen. Furthermore, interviews were conducted with businesses and key people in the community. An information event was held to keep citizens up to date and to raise awareness of the issue.

The fact that the old railway station building was bought by the city of Löffingen can be seen as a first success. The interest of RegioWIN 2030 - Competition for Sustainable Regional Development in the project can be seen as a further success, as it creates a long-term perspective. Another success is that a feasibility study has already been commissioned to investigate the potential of Coworking and other forms of use.
Applicable in rural, non-city areas
Local region
Youth, Elderly, Students, Active Working People
October 2020 - ongoing

Implementation

Key Conditions for Success

An important condition for the success of the project is that the feasibility study comes to the conclusion that an innovation lab in Löffingen is worthwhile and that enough people actively participate in the implementation. The facilities of the Innovation Lab must meet the needs of the people, companies and business start-ups. All the different actors need to work together for a successful implementation. This is particularly important because it is the only way to create a lively place that is accepted and embraced.

Key Steps for Activity Implementation

1) Old railway building must be purchased by the municipality of Löffingen 2) A company must be commissioned to carry out a feasibility study to identify potential 3) People need to be informed and all the different actors involved need to work together 4) The old station building must be rebuilt and designed according to the identified need of the feasibility study 5) A suitable administrative concept must be found that maybe includes the municipality marketing department.

Difficulties Encountered

No difficulties so far.

Resources Needed

At least EUR 125 000 for the acquisition of the building and its land. These costs will be borne by the municipality of Loeffingen. Further costs for commissioning a feasibility study. Conversion and extension of the building can possibly be continued via the RegioWIN 2030 - Competition for Sustainable Regional Development. The citizens must be willing to participate in the process and, for example, actively take part in the survey and the information event.

Would you like to know more?

Contact the project authors for more information about project implementation, resources, planning and impact.

Jonas Rakelmann; Anna