Challenges for SSE-networks supporting local sustainability: lessons-learned of an IEP Site experiment in Mechelen (Belgium)

In this paper, we report the first lessons learned of an Inclusive Economy Participation or IEP Site experiment realized in the city of Mechelen (Belgium). An IEP Site is a geographically concentrated location where profit, public, and social profit organizations join forces to stimulate the inclusive economic participation of vulnerable citizens. Because stimulating inclusive economic participation is one of the basic dimensions of sustainability, an IEP-site can be depicted as the physical residence of a network that supports local sustainability. As Social and Solidarist Economy organizations fulfill a key-role in this location, the IEP Site network can be depicted as an SSE-network. Although the experiment in Mechelen did not correspond entirely with the fundamental features of an IEP Site, the encountered endeavors did generate useful and relevant lessons learned. As such, we have experienced how difficult it is to join forces successfully and to create a well-functioning local network for economic inclusion. Additionally, unexpected setbacks have challenged the partners to continue to come up with creative and on-the-spot solutions. At the same time, these setbacks have put their motivation, commitment, and resilience repeatedly under pressure. Fortunately, there were also unexpected strokes of luck. Thus, the partners have experienced how a diversified methodological approach and active participation of vulnerable citizens themselves in the spatial design of the site, has triggered the competences of self-reliance and personal growth of the vulnerable citizens involved. In short, the experiment in Mechelen generates useful new insights that stimulate further development and successful implementation of the IEP-site concept in Belgium.