New Future Lab transfers WIJcafé to 015 Sustainable

Why this moment?

‍Atthe start, we already said that the WIJcafé would have a temporary character, partly because of the expected redevelopment of the area. We thought: as long as we can, we will make something beautiful out of it together and in the meantime we will look for other places where we can move on to.

We have now found those places. On April 14 we opened Het Stationshuis next to Delft Campus station, and on September 8 we will open Boost Lokaal - a special store concept and meeting place in De Hoven.

So it feels like a natural moment to let go of WIJcafé. In addition, we are delighted that 015 Sustainable will continue. The place will be preserved for the neighborhood.

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What has WIJcafé brought?

‍Westarted the WIJcafé with the goal of getting closer to the residents of the neighborhood, building trust, giving value back to the city, learning how a neighborhood café works, discovering talent ánd having fun. And they succeeded:

• What stays with us most are the wonderful encounters. We got to know all kinds of residents and built a fine bond. We had nice conversations, played (board) games or helped each other. By being present in Voorhof every day, we as a team also got a much better idea of what is going on and what is needed.
  
  
• We served over 3,950 drinks in just under a year. WIJcafé became a place where people could catch their breath, meet each other, practice their Dutch, learn new things or broaden their network.
  
  
• We got to know a lot of talent: from a new colleague to entrepreneurs and residents who have a lot to offer.
  
  
• We built new collaborations with neighborhood partners and professionals, and we are keeping that going.
  
  
• Initiatives like the clothing rack and share closet where people could bring things or take them for free were used a lot. Those little things created mutual connection.
  
  
• Last but not least, we learned what works (and what doesn't) when setting up a fine and approachable meeting place. From what opening hours to processes or what things on the menu, and from programming to communication.

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Thank you to everyone who contributed to this adventure!

‍Weare proud of what we have created together and wish 015 Sustainable a lot of success and pleasure in continuing the WIJcafé. We remain in the neighborhood - literally and figuratively - and look forward to what else grows from this special place.

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Photos: Max van Dongen | Floor Fortunati | Ruben Daniëls