COLLE: a learning ecosystem connecting Ghent through sharing and repair

No space for that drill you only use once a year? COLLE connects neighbours in Ghent through sharing, repairing and learning together.

In short

COLLE, short for ‘collective learning’, is a learning ecosystem that connects solidarity-based sharing and repair initiatives in Ghent. It aims to make sharing and repairing the norm across the city by strengthening communities, fostering social inclusion and creating economic opportunities. The project brings together people from diverse backgrounds – including newcomers – and offers learning spaces where talents can thrive.

The name says it all: Colle means glue in the local dialect. That’s exactly what we do – connecting people, ideas and initiatives. Together, we learn how to engage differently with our belongings, with each other, and with the world around us. While Ghent already hosts many valuable initiatives, they are not always visible or connected. COLLE creates that connection, both in the neighbourhoods and across the city.

Need and relevance

Ghent faces pressing social and ecological challenges, from inequality to overconsumption. At the same time, many residents have valuable talents, experience and motivation to contribute. COLLE makes this potential visible and active, especially for newcomers and people in vulnerable situations. By linking sharing and repair initiatives into one ecosystem, the project promotes social justice, sustainability and community resilience.

From approach to impact

COLLE has impact on three levels: social, ecological and economic. It creates inclusive learning spaces in partnership with local initiatives like Vrijplaats, de Klusserette, de Babytheek and community give-away shops. Bi-weekly Open Space gatherings foster collaboration, coordination and inspiration. Residents are encouraged to become changemakers, taking part in workshops, neighbourhood projects and peer learning. Together, we create a connected city where sharing and repairing become second nature.

Op Wielekes

A powerful example of a sustainable sharing model is Op Wielekes, a bike library for children. It tackles the issue of fast-growing kids who frequently need new bikes. For a fixed fee, parents can borrow a bicycle and exchange it as their child grows. This system reduces waste, supports the circular economy, and enhances children's mobility and road safety. COLLE and Mpact support its expansion in Ghent and beyond. Today, over 35 depots are active across Belgium – and the network is still growing.