The online seminar “Coworking for Municipalities: Impact Over Hype Through Effective Demand Management” is organised by the KNB – Competence Centre for Sustainable Procurement Saxony as a capacity-building activity for public authorities and regional stakeholders. The webinar will take place on 5 October 2026 from 13:30 to 15:30.
The seminar will explore the potential of coworking spaces as a strategic tool for local and regional development. Moving beyond the perception of coworking as an urban trend, the session will highlight how well-designed coworking initiatives can contribute to town centre revitalisation, talent retention, entrepreneurship and new forms of collaboration within municipalities.
Participants will gain insights into the different roles coworking spaces can play in achieving municipal development objectives and discuss the conditions under which such projects can generate lasting impact. Particular attention will be given to the question of whether and how public authorities should support coworking initiatives, including considerations related to financing, governance and long-term sustainability.
The webinar will examine various coworking models and their suitability for different municipal contexts. Participants will learn about operator models, cooperation approaches and practical factors that influence the success or failure of coworking projects. The seminar will also address pathways for transitioning projects from publicly funded initiatives or privately financed schemes into sustainable long-term operations.
A key part of the programme will focus on practical examples, including the “Dorf-Büros Rheinland-Pfalz” pilot project and current coworking initiatives in medium-sized towns. These case studies will provide participants with transferable lessons and insights that can be adapted to other regional contexts.
The session will be led by Tobias Kollewe, founder and Chairman of the Board of cowork AG and President of the German Coworking Spaces Association (BVCS). As one of Germany’s leading experts on coworking and flexible work environments, he advises municipalities, economic development agencies, project developers and financial institutions across the country. Drawing on extensive practical experience, he will share valuable insights into the planning, implementation and long-term management of coworking projects.
The webinar will conclude with an interactive discussion, allowing participants to address individual questions and exchange experiences related to coworking initiatives and their potential contribution to local development strategies.
More information here