As can be expected, such an ambitious project requires a great investment not only of time, but also money. Therefore, we are dependant upon income from various sources which include government subsidies, supporting memberships, donations, sale of high-quality products and services, and private expenditures by ecovillage settlers.
Currently, the core group members are all working on a volunteer
basis. Since the time needed to coordinate the Seedling
Ecovillage is multiplying rapidly this Autumn 2004, we need to ensure
that a stable economic foundation exists. In addition to
structural overhead costs there are also future personnel costs, and
expenditures for materials and external services to consider.
Research grant ‘proVision’:
Since the definitive problems of this planet have already been
extensively researched, the time has arrived to begin developing models
that demonstrate more sustainable lifestyles. Our project is
scientifically accompanied by a feasibility study. The
corresponding grant, ‘proVision’, should make it possible to
professionalize our (previously honorary) research on this
subject. We would like to create 1-2 paid positions open to core
team members subsidized by this grant.
Donors and Members:
As this ecovillage is the first of its kind in Austria, and since we
already have a fundraising database, we are reckoning with a high level
of income from donations and memberships. You too can support
us! For more details about memberships and donations look here.
More available sources of income:
The main team members will dedicate their considerable personal skills
to offering services and products. Possible services include
courses, lectures, workshops, seminars (for example on permaculture),
alternative healing methods, massage, educational sciences,
permaculture design, layout and printing, cultural events, country
vacations, etc. We can also offer goods such as organic foods,
furniture, musical instruments, etc.
Purchasing a project center:
A project center has been bought. Have a look at the pictures of the house!
Adapting the project center:
Supporting members invest (min.) 1000. - Euro into the KEIMBLATT
ÖKODORF Alliance. Repayment of this amount starts one year
later in the form of services and products. Repayment must be
completed within 15 years. These funds will be used to adapt the
project center. Even if a supporting member chooses not to become
a village member, they will hopefully remain as customers and therefore
an economic basis for the ecovillage. Read more...
Once the core group members have brought the project center to life, it will be necessary to find an appropriate location for the ecovillage. During this phase we will intensify existing cooperations at various levels and keep watch for new opportunities. The following partners should be essentially in agreement with and supporting of the placement area for Ecovillage ‘Seedling’: municipality, county, state, ministries, universities, EU, foundations, significant donors, etc.
A fellowship will be created to manage the financing of the common facilities. All live-in members are also members of the fellowship. The costs for building other facilities (in particular homes) will be covered by the settlers and in some cases the neighborhood.