Assets 3rd plenary meeting in Cologne
Advancing Social Impact and Collaboration: ASSETS Plenary Meeting in Cologne
On 5–6 March 2026, partners of the ASSETS project gathered in Cologne for a productive plenary meeting hosted by the Seminar for Cooperative Research at the University of Cologne. The meeting marked an important milestone for the consortium, providing a valuable opportunity to align ongoing work, exchange insights, and strengthen collaboration across partners.
Reviewing Progress and Setting the Course Ahead
Over two intensive days, partners reviewed progress across all Work Packages. Discussions covered key developments ranging from the design of evaluation tools and case studies to advancements in the ASSETS digital cooperative platform. The meeting also provided space to coordinate dissemination, communication, and exploitation activities, alongside project management and reporting.
This collective reflection ensured that all partners remain aligned as the project moves into its next phase, reinforcing a shared vision and strategic direction.
Rethinking Social Impact Measurement
A central highlight of the meeting was the second ASSETS workshop, titled “Rethinking Social Impact Measurement in the Social Economy sector.” The session brought together partners to critically reflect on how impact is currently assessed within Social Economy Organisations.
Discussions emphasised that existing frameworks often overlook local specificities and the working conditions of those contributing to social impact. In response, the workshop explored the methodological approach developed within ASSETS, focusing on more inclusive and context-sensitive forms of impact assessment.
Partners also examined how the project’s digital tools, including a mobile application and an AI-based assistant, can support more meaningful, accessible, and practical approaches to measuring social impact.
Co-Creation for Impact and Organisational Reflection
Building on these discussions, co-creation sessions held on 12 March 2026 with DOGA and IZTECH further deepened the project’s work on impact and organisational practices.
The first session focused on Social Return on Investment (SROI), where participants identified and prioritised key impact indicators. These included knowledge and skill transfer, social innovation, and community-based value creation. Importantly, participants highlighted the need to understand impact as a continuous and relational process, extending beyond purely quantitative metrics.
The second session turned to organisational practices, with a focus on working conditions within DOGA. Through an open and participatory exchange, participants reviewed and refined a survey tool to better reflect the realities of project-based and field-oriented work environments.
Strengthening Collaboration for the Future
The Cologne meeting concluded on a strong note, with partners reaffirming their commitment to collaboration and innovation. The discussions generated fresh ideas and reinforced the collective ambition to advance technological solutions that support the social economy.
The ASSETS consortium extends its sincere thanks to the University of Cologne for the warm hospitality, and to all partners for their active engagement and constructive contributions.
As the project moves forward, these exchanges will continue to shape its direction, ensuring that impact, inclusivity, and collaboration remain at its core.
