Employer profile
Start Somewhere
München, DEImpact-drivenNon-Profit EnterpriseDevelopment CooperationSocial Impact
Impact3Sustainability Goals
LocationMünchen
About Start Somewhere
Start Somewhere is a non-profit GmbH based in Munich, Germany, with eleven years of experience in development cooperation. The organization focuses on sustainably improving living conditions in vulnerable communities through its innovative TwistBlocks building system. This system enables the construction of flexible, reusable, and cost-effective buildings that can be produced and applied locally. Start Somewhere thus fosters community empowerment and economic development, particularly in Kenya, where several factories and buildings have already been established.
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Sustainability Goals
Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure
Innovative building technology for resilient infrastructure
The organization utilizes its certified TwistBlocks system to deliver cost-effective, fire-safe, and rapidly constructed buildings, including schools and affordable housing, in disadvantaged regions.
Decent Work & Economic Growth
Fostering local employment and entrepreneurship
Start Somewhere establishes TwistBlocks factories in Kenya, creating permanent jobs for local residents and supporting individuals in setting up their own enterprises.
Sustainable Cities & Communities
Sustainable buildings for livable communities
By constructing TwistBlock buildings, including schools and prototypes for affordable housing, Start Somewhere sustainably improves living conditions in vulnerable communities.
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FAQs
Q1What is Start Somewhere's core mission?+
Start Somewhere is a non-profit GmbH with eleven years of experience in development cooperation. Its core mission is to sustainably improve living conditions in vulnerable communities from within, primarily through the innovative TwistBlocks building system.
Q2What is the TwistBlocks building system?+
The TwistBlocks system consists of flexible, reusable, cost-effective, and fire-safe interlocking cement blocks, certified in Kenya. These enable mortar-free walls that can be installed up to 10 times faster than traditional bricks and are 80% deconstructable and reusable.
Q3Where and how does Start Somewhere achieve impact?+
The organization achieves its impact notably in Kenya, where it has established 3 TwistBlock factories, created 15 permanent local jobs, and constructed 20 TwistBlock buildings, including 4 school facilities. Recent projects include affordable housing in Nairobi and the Global One Primary School in Kibera.
Q4Where is Start Somewhere headquartered and what is its legal form?+
Start Somewhere is a non-profit GmbH (gGmbH) headquartered in Munich, Germany. This legal form underscores its non-profit nature and focus on social purposes.
Q5Which UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) does Start Somewhere contribute to?+
Start Somewhere primarily contributes to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure). Secondarily, the organization supports SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
Q6Has Start Somewhere received any awards?+
Yes, Start Somewhere was awarded the German Innovation Award in 2021. This recognition highlights the innovative strength and positive impact of the TwistBlocks building system.
