How the project contributed to preserving tradition while driving progress
In Slovenska Bistrica, history and modernity unite through the HUB-IN initiative, fostering creativity, innovation, and collaboration while celebrating cultural heritage. Three initiatives – a co-working space designed to fuel collaboration, the Accelerator Crouzator aimed at driving creativity, and a community involvement programme – have transformed the town into a vibrant HUB of progress. These projects highlight the town’s commitment to building an inclusive and sustainable future where tradition meets innovation.
Co-Working Space: empowering sustainable and creative businesses
What do a heritage building, a co-working space and reused furniture have in common? Together, they form a tangible legacy of the HUB-IN project in Slovenska Bistrica: a vibrant co-working space, designed to empower local start-ups, designers, creatives, architects, and entrepreneurs. Additionally, a revitalised inner courtyard is now a dynamic venue for community events and gatherings. This space not only fosters connections but also enriches the cultural and social ties within the community. An example of an ingenious blend of heritage, modernity, and sustainability.
Accelerator Crouzator: igniting creativity
The municipality of Slovenska Bistrica launched two open calls for artisans, entrepreneurs, and innovators aimed at fostering innovation and creativity within the local creative and cultural sectors. This programme strived to empower individuals and small businesses by providing opportunities to develop their ideas, collaborate with like-minded professionals, and contribute to the region’s cultural and economic vitality.
The accelerator programme fostered the development of a dynamic start-up culture and the cultivation of an entrepreneurial mindset. By offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to resources, the initiative unlocked the potential of participants and enriched the community with fresh perspectives and creative solutions.
Reshaping the public spaces together
The Crouzet building has been revitalised through a community initiative aimed at creating a more inviting and functional environment. From September to November 2023, individuals and local groups collaborated to redesign the space, turning part of the outer courtyard, previously a parking lot, into a welcoming area known as The Outdoor Living Room.
In 2024, the project continued with local high school students contributing five small actions to enliven the inner courtyard and add personal touches to the co-working space. This initiative highlighted the power of community collaboration in reshaping shared spaces and nurturing a sense of ownership and pride.
Committed to achieving a meaningful and lasting change
Slovenska Bistrica’s HUB-IN exemplifies how creativity and innovation can come together to celebrate and preserve heritage while driving progress. By prioritising diversity, adaptability, and sustainability, this initiative is a model for achieving meaningful and lasting change.
Thanks to this experience, Slovenska Bristrica has learned that relying on external partners – more experienced than you – can be highly beneficial. Moreover, investing in advertising can significantly help you reach the right stakeholders.
Discover the stories of the European cities involved in the HUB-IN project: have a look at the Storytelling Booklets!
