Future Economy Study

About this study:

Europe is undergoing a transformative period marked by the transition to a greener, more digital economy, backed up by a comprehensive action plan for the social economy from the European Commission. In parallel we are experiencing turbulence and polarisation around issues like security, migration and rising right-wing populism. A just transition to a ‘future economy’ is pivotal for fostering regional cohesion and reducing economic disparities within and across the different countries of Europe.

Young people in 2024 are bearing the brunt of these economic inequities. They are three times as likely as adults (25 years and older) to be unemployed and three quarters of them are in vulnerable or informal jobs. At the same time, youth is a demographic which is truly holding industry leaders accountable and building critical masses of movements like never before in history. Young changemakers are crucial players in this fast-changing landscape. Their bold, innovative approaches and entrepreneurial spirit drive some of the most disruptive solutions to help us adapt to this economic transition.

The Objective

This new study aims to provide a nuanced view of how Europe-based young changemakers envision and contribute to a sustainable and inclusive economic future. It will also serve as the basis for bringing together key ecosystem stakeholders across Europe, and serve as a data-driven impulse to inspire the group towards collective action.

The Key Elements

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As part of this initiative we will be running a scientific study, and publish a report on the opinions, ideas and suggestions of young changemaker regarding the future of the economy in Europe.
We aim for the report to become an open source of information for governments, foundations, civil society and anyone willing to work towards a just, green and resilient economy in Europe.




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Besides the study and report, we will create in-depth profiles and case studies of young changemakers who are leading innovative projects creating the future economy in Europe.




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We aim to gather critical stakeholders for the transition to a future economy, and, based on insights from the study and case studies, we will co-create ideas how to better support young changemakers working towards it.




The Future Economy Council

The Future Economy Council is a group of leaders from across Europe. They provide feedback, input and guidance to the partners of this project. Through their invaluable contribution, we ensure that our work, surveys and activities are rooted in the lived experience of changemakers. Participation in the Council is by invitation only (we welcome recommendations and (self-) nominations though).

Criteria

Council Members fulfil the following criteria:

  • Ideally Aged 16-35 (not a hard criteria / must though).
  • Based in Europe.
  • Founded or currently lead an initiative (i.e. are a ‘changemaker’).
  • Track record of being active in or extensive knowledge of the field of “future economy”.
  • Available for a total of 8-10 hours from now until February 2026 (members receive a €500 compensation for their involvement).
  • Willing to engage with The Possibilists team via a total of three 1 hour online meetings, and potentially a half day in-person event.
  • Comfortable with being publicly associated with the project, and acting as an ‘ambassador’.

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