Overcoming obstacles

The programme covers parts of two districts in the southeast, Lichtenberg and Friedrichshain, which have a total population of 30 000 people. This former industrial area, characterised by derelict railway infrastructure, has been experiencing economic decline since 1990 and has an unemployment rate of almost 16%. For the Kulturgewerbliches Gründerzentrum project, the first step was the establishment of the cultural association RAW-tempel, with the financial support of URBAN. The association will renovate architecturally significant buildings and provide training for small businesses attempting to become financial viable. It is also intended that a network of good practice will emerge between the different enterprises that will occupy the renovated buildings. In addition to artists, cultural and craft workers, the site will accommodate a drum maker, who is exporting his innovative "pneumatic pitch control" invention, in collaboration with recording studios and music producers. In all, 25 units will be created, and 12 enterprises should be in-situ by 2006. This project provides an integrated approach, where culture is the catalyst for economic development and urban renewal.