Nouvelle-Aquitaine: A Model of Solidarity

From April 9-11, 2024, the CASPER project partners and stakeholders gathered in Nouvelle Aquitaine to explore dynamic models of solidarity and innovation. The visit showcased the successful Social and Solidarity Economy initiatives in the region, including third places, cooperatives, and participatory financing, all fostering community empowerment and economic resilience.

During the trip, our partners had the opportunity to visit:

• The Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, receiving a warm welcome from Maud Caruhel, Vice-President SSE and Circular Economy, and Marie-Laure Cuvelier, Regional Councillor in charge of the Social and Solidarity Economy.
• Third places like La Palette, La Quincaillerie, and L'Escalier, which are centers of community and creativity in remote areas.
• Atelier Chamothé, a ceramics studio that has successfully combined artistry with entrepreneurship, supported by local crowdfunding through 'J'adopte un projet.'
• Le Battement d'ailes, which has transformed from a village-led initiative into an agricultural cooperative.
• La Ruelle, a social center working to reinvest tourism revenues to provide year-round services.

An engaging discussion and performance by MalVal—a group of local traditional music artists—highlighted the evening, showcasing their role in preserving tradition while innovating within it.

Other highlights included learning about best practices from:

• The municipality of Aureil on the Fabrique à Initiatives project.
• The municipality of Veyrac regarding their citizen-driven approach.
• A solidarity grocery store in La Saunière.
• The Commons association in Guéret.

From citizens gathering in third places, to a music collective breathing new life into traditional sounds, to citizen-led initiatives and cooperatives that provide solutions and services in rural areas, to community financing of impactful projects, it was a true showcase of solidarity. Our partners and stakeholders left Nouvelle-Aquitaine inspired, equipped with valuable knowledge to take back to their regions.