About Innovationswerkstatt

We are experiencing a profound and rapid technological, social, and environmental transformation – alongside an increase in multiple crises. These developments entail major challenges that are reflected in local, national, European, and global climate and sustainability goals.

Cities play a key role in sustainable transformation – as the living space for most people and the largest (yet most efficient per capita) consumers of resources. The success of urban strategies depends on social innovation for several reasons. Changing lifestyles and practices, as well as new governance and organisational models, can achieve substantial effects. Moreover, new technologies can only unfold their full potential when combined with social changes. Ultimately, high-quality urban development is always a reflection of well-functioning social processes.

The Workshop for Social Innovation and Sustainable Transformation in Urban Development (short: Innovationswerkstatt) is funded by the Klima- und Energiefonds and additional cooperation partners such as the Immobilien Privatstiftung from March 2022 to February 2026. The transdisciplinary knowledge and research infrastructure is supported through the “Innovationslabor” funding program as part of the Smart Cities Initiative (program "Leuchttürme für resiliente Städte").

The Innovationswerkstatt expands activities and formats of the future.lab with a focus on urban transformation and social innovation, offering consulting and support services for pioneers and urban actors. It operates in Austria and is internationally connected. An open, transdisciplinary exchange creates and connects knowledge and competencies. The services provided are transparent and encourage active participation.