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Outputs

WP2 – RESEARCH

Work Package 2 (WP2) is dedicated to creating a solid knowledge base that will inform the subsequent activities of the project. The main objective of this research is to analyze the potential for inclusion of migrants through coworking spaces, with a specific focus on gender and rural areas.

The first phase of WP2 involves desk research on the landscape of collaborative spaces in Europe. This theoretical analysis is enriched by two expert focus groups: the first focused on the “gender dimension in the coworking movement” and the second on “coworking spaces in rural areas.” These focus groups allow the research to incorporate specialist perspectives on two crucial themes for inclusivity.

Following this, a field survey is conducted to assess, in practice, the level of openness and inclusion of migrants within coworking spaces. This phase covers 11 implementation territories (Athens, Verona, Rome, Nicosia, Valencia, Vienna, Cologne, Amsterdam, Paris, Malmö, and Ljubljana). Researchers, trained through an international seminar, conduct interviews with coworking space leaders, coworkers, and migrants from the project’s target groups. A total of 110 nationals and 110 migrants are interviewed.

The stages of WP2 are structured as follows:

  1. Theoretical research: mapping the global and European context of collaborative spaces.
  2. Expert focus groups: in-depth discussions on gender and rural coworking spaces.
  3. Field research: qualitative analysis through interviews in 11 European cities.

The findings from this research will lay the foundation for developing guidelines and concrete initiatives aimed at making coworking spaces more inclusive and accessible to all communities.

Collaborative Spaces: A Perspective on Inclusivity

The desk research report Collaborative and Coworking Spaces: A Perspective on Inclusivity? is a significant output of the Resources on the Move (RES-MOVE) project, co-funded by the EU’s Asylum, Migration, and Integration Fund. This report explores the potential of collaborative and coworking spaces (CWCS) as hubs of inclusivity, focusing on their role in fostering the integration of migrants, particularly in rural areas and among marginalised groups such as women and LGBTQ+ communities.

CWCS are reshaping the traditional concept of office work, offering dynamic environments that attract freelancers, startups, and creative professionals. They are increasingly recognised as spaces where social and economic integration for migrants can flourish. However, this potential has not yet been fully realised, particularly in non-urban coworking spaces and for migrant women.

Led by the Slovenian Migration Institute ZRC SAZU, the research team conducted a meta-study to examine the challenges and best practices of inclusive coworking in 10 EU countries: Greece, Cyprus, Slovenia, Italy, Germany, Austria, Sweden, France, the Netherlands, and Spain. This study covers three key areas: migration, rural coworking spaces, and gender inclusivity.

Through its five chapters, the report delves into the history and taxonomy of CWCS, their interaction with migrant communities and minorities, the rise of rural coworking spaces, and gender inclusivity challenges. The findings aim to inform the creation of more inclusive coworking spaces across Europe and contribute to social innovation and integration.

This report is part of a broader effort to establish guidelines for Inclusive Coworking Spaces (ICS), offering valuable insights for stakeholders, policymakers, and the coworking community across Europe.

WP3 – TAKE-OFF

Work Package 3 (WP3) focuses on identifying and engaging key stakeholders in the coworking ecosystem within the 11 implementation territories (Athens, Verona, Rome, Nicosia, Valencia, Vienna, Cologne, Amsterdam, Paris, Malmö, and Ljubljana). The primary objective is to foster the development of Inclusive Coworking Spaces (ICSs) that promote the social and economic integration of migrants.

The first phase of WP3 involves mapping the existing coworking spaces and identifying all relevant stakeholders who may be interested in the creation of ICSs. These stakeholders include coworking space leaders, local businesses, migrant associations, and other organizations that can support the inclusion of migrants in coworking environments. Once identified, these stakeholders will be actively engaged in the process.

To encourage innovative ideas, WP3 will launch a “Call for Ideas” in each territory, inviting proposals for the development of Inclusive Coworking Spaces. These proposals should focus on enhancing openness, inclusivity, and support for migrants and marginalised groups. A selection process will then take place, where the best proposal(s) from each territory will be chosen based on their potential for impact and feasibility.

The final phase of WP3 involves negotiating and signing “Development Agreements” with the group(s) that submitted the winning proposal(s). These agreements will formalize the collaboration between stakeholders and ensure that resources and support are in place to develop and implement the selected ICS initiatives.

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WP4 – DEVELOPMENT

Work Package 4 (WP4) focuses on the implementation of activities that directly involve migrants, following the signing of the “Development Agreements” established in WP3. The main objective of WP4 is to activate tailored programs that support the integration and professional development of migrants through coworking spaces, fostering entrepreneurial skills, job opportunities, and social inclusion.

Once the Development Agreements are in place, a series of activities begins, aimed at addressing the specific needs of migrants. These include:

  1. Skills assessment: Utilizing tools such as Euraxess and the EU Talent Pool Pilot to assess the qualifications and skills of migrants, facilitating their alignment with local job markets.

  2. Training on self-entrepreneurship: Offering courses tailored to different national contexts to help migrants develop entrepreneurial skills and navigate the challenges of starting a business.

  3. Language courses: Providing language training, particularly focused on “job and business-oriented” language skills, to help migrants communicate effectively in professional settings.

  4. Career counselling and orientation: Offering guidance and support to migrants in terms of career development and job search strategies.

  5. Workshops on micro and small enterprise development: Organizing workshops where migrants can co-design and co-program new business ideas, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

  6. Networking with local businesses: Facilitating meetings between migrants and local businesses to create job opportunities and strengthen ties with the local economy.

A key milestone in WP4 is the founding event of the RES-MOVE Transnational Network, which will take place in Vienna. This event will officially launch the network, providing a platform for collaboration across borders. Immediately following the event, the Platform will be activated, serving as a central hub for the network’s activities, resources, and communication.