SpareSpace: unlocks the potential of entrepreneurs

A solution by Solution provider SpareSpace submitted to Integration and economic independence of immigrants

SpareSpace offers an apt and practical solution tailored to the needs and wishes of the new immigrant population. We aim to make social impact by giving immigrants a chance to start their own business and, even more importantly, by giving them a chance to start again in Friesland. Please read our public summary for more details on the implementation and social impact of our solution.

(Pitched: 20/12/2017)

One Page Summary

The challenge

The challenge that solution provider SpareSpace addresses is the slow integration process of the new immigrant population of Friesland who have different ages, educational levels, skills and ethnic backgrounds. Our solution consists of introducing the immigrants to the SpareSpace concept and stimulate the target group to become actual entrepreneurs. SpareSpace offers an accessible approach that is tailored to the needs and wishes of the new immigrant population.

Co-renting a shop

Firstly, we enable new entrepreneurs to start their own business and work together with other SpareSpace entrepreneurs in one shop. People who want to start their own business, but need some help starting things up, are our target group. SpareSpace stimulates this group to make the first steps on the path of entrepreneurship and arranges, for example, the rent of a shop-premises and the furniture used to display the items in the shop. In cooperation with the owners of buildings and local stakeholders we agree on a reasonable rent and a shorter tenancy period. Because of this shorter than usual tenancy period, our entrepreneurs are not under any obligation to continue their business if it turns out to be less successful than expected.

Digital platform

Secondly, entrepreneurs will be able to connect with each other via our own online platform. This platform allows entrepreneurs to enroll in special events and workshops. At these workshops and events, we deal with actual questions from the group.

New role models

Thirdly, new immigrants can relate to the people of SpareSpace. We involve former SpareSpace entrepreneurs who immigrated to Friesland some years ago. These entrepreneurs can share their experiences and ideas with the new group and at the same time, function as a role model. We aim to make social impact by giving immigrants a chance to start their own business and, even more importantly, by giving them a chance to start again in Friesland.

Social impact

We aim to make social impact by giving immigrants a chance to start their own business and, even more importantly, by giving them a chance to start again in Friesland. Our goal during this project is to enlist at least 50 potential new immigrant entrepreneurs, 5 of whom will be invited to open their own shop in the province of Friesland after the project period.

Watch the video pitch on our solution presented by Nian Wetsteijn from SpareSpace: https://youtu.be/wkRl-z7s6mw