We’re creating a map of everything that helps people to meet their material and social needs in ways that don’t harm people or the planet.

Explore the map, connect with others and help to build a more just and sustainable world.

The solidarity economy is an economy that serves everyone and the planet.

We want to show that a solidarity economy already exists and it is thriving in our region. The North East is alive with organisations, projects, and initiatives who are offering an alternative to the extractive and oppressive mainstream economic system.

This map, like others around the world, will connect communities, strengthen initiatives and make their work more visible so that more people can be part of this movement for change.

Get on the map. Share information about your initiative with us by completing this short survey.


In our own words

Big River bakery: We only learn by doing. Don’t be afraid to fail. We have failed on loads of different things; failure, we shouldn’t even say that word, is learning. And don’t be frightened to learn and take a risk.

Shieldfield art works (saw): Everybody that comes in is valued by their uniqueness and valued as the person they are. Anybody no matter what cultural background, faith and economic status, no matter who comes through the door, is treated the same. Those people who come in are held in that unity, I would call that solidarity.

Star and Shadow Cinema: Star and Shadow Cinema is a volunteer-run DIY space. The building is run and programmed by its audiences.