Netzwerk Zukunftsorte (NZO)

Netzwerk Zukunftsorte e.V. (NZO) is a non-profit association founded in 2020 to support and connect people involved in rural rejuvenation projects in Germany, with an initial focus on Brandenburg. The organization aims to highlight and develop rural "third spaces" - revitalized vacant properties that bring new impulses, meeting places, and engaged people to rural communities. NZO's members include individuals, associations, initiatives, social enterprises, and property owners who are actively involved in rural development. Since 2023, they've also been working with local authorities through their "Starke Orte Netzwerk" (Strong Spaces Network). The association serves as a knowledge hub and networking platform for rural development activists. They maintain a digital knowledge platform (wissen.zukunftsorte.land) that offers practical information on establishing and operating Zukunftsorte. NZO currently connects 15 established Zukunftsorte and over 50 creative spaces, with more emerging projects being supported. NZO's activities include regular online meet-ups for experience sharing, annual in-person gatherings, and regional tours to showcase potential spaces for new initiatives. They provide consultation services and facilitate connections between project developers, experts, and local authorities. Their work focuses particularly on community-oriented real estate development in rural East Germany, helping transform abandoned buildings into vibrant community spaces that combine living and working environments.