Viennese initiative 20+2” brings a breath of fresh air to Brigittenau and Leopoldstadt!

Viennese initiative 20+2” brings a breath of fresh air to Brigittenau and Leopoldstadt!

Things are happening in Vienna! With the “Grätzlinitiative 20+2” WieNeu+ and the Vienna Business Agency have launched an exciting project that aims to revitalize empty business premises and promote social interaction in the districts. Three creative ideas that are intended to enrich the neighborhood have currently been officially opened in the Brigittenau and Leopoldstadt districts. There were over 60 submissions for this initiative, from which ten promising business ideas were selected. The new entrepreneurs can look forward to financial and organizational support and have the opportunity to rent premises in the so-called “Grätzl 20+2” program areas. News.at reports that the winning concepts were selected by the City of Vienna and the business agency at the end of last year.

The creative projects

The new ventures offer a breath of fresh air and are aimed at different needs and communities. In the 20th district there is the “Deaf Space” cultural center, which was opened by the Gebärdenverse association. Here, deaf people are offered a place to attend courses and cultural events in Austrian Sign Language. What is interesting is that the use of the premises is completely free for the community.

The HOLi Social Health Hub is located in the 2nd district. This health center takes a weight-neutral approach and offers consultations and therapy options. The focus is on behavior change and combating weight discrimination. The idea is to create further awareness of health and well-being in the district.

Thirdly, there is the Solidar:Raum, which is run by Ouvertura and GeLa Ochsenherz. Everything here is about sustainable, solidarity-based agriculture. Not only is food offered, but it also creates an exchange place where neighbors can come together. The plans even include a neighborhood kitchen that will provide space for social gatherings.

Looking outside the box

But that's not the only place where initiatives are taking hold. Among other things, in Santo André, Brazil, where Rua Indaiatuba can be found in Bairro Vila Bela Vista, it is shown how local communities can be supported through targeted projects. The city has also put topics such as social integration and support on its agenda with various programs and approaches. Ruacep.com.br provides information about the local conditions and the commitment of Mayor Paulo Henrique Pinto Serra.

Global networking is important, and Vienna is also diverse in terms of cuisine. When talking about local initiatives, you can't ignore pizza. No matter whether it is a large or small version, everyone loves it. For example, a 36 cm Polo Pizza costs around CHF 20, and even the preparation is easy, although the ingredients are classic. Polopizza.ch informs you about its offers, which are also ideal for a sociable evening.

Such initiatives not only strengthen the sense of community in the neighborhoods, but also promote creative exchange. Vienna shows how innovation and cohesion can make city life worth living.