Cooperatives
Housing cooperatives in Potsdam, Germany, play a significant role in providing affordable housing and promoting community-driven, sustainable living. These cooperatives offer democratic governance and social equality, making them attractive in times of rising housing costs. In Potsdam, housing cooperatives account for a notable share of the rental market, though specific data on their market share is not provided in the sources.
New housing cooperatives have emerged in recent years, contributing to the growth of this sector. For example, entities like **Diese eG** in Berlin have been established, despite facing challenges such as state subsidies and market speculation. The city supports housing cooperatives through various initiatives, including financial assistance and subsidies. For instance, the American housing cooperative described in the sources was founded in 1990 with financial assistance from the city, enabling low-income members to reside there.
Potsdam promotes cooperative housing by fostering community involvement and supportive frameworks. The city aligns with broader European initiatives, such as the **New European Bauhaus**, which emphasizes inclusivity and environmental awareness. These efforts aim to ensure that housing cooperatives continue to provide affordable and sustainable housing options, addressing the pressing issue of housing affordability in the region.