As 2024 comes to a close, we at Participation Factory reflect on a remarkable year of growth, innovation, and impact. From advancing renewable energy initiatives to fostering civic engagement, this year has underscored the importance of participation in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future.
In numbers, 2024 has been incredibly productive. We delivered 34 projects that positively impacted numerous communities that are home to hundreds of thousands of people, facilitated over 70 participatory meetings and workshops, and provided more than 150 hours of training. Through these efforts, we trained countless individuals, supported mentees, and conducted 25 webinars. Our research and evaluation of over 80 civic tech tools further solidified our role in advancing digital public participation. Additionally, we launched an online course, “Participate Practically,” to make best practices and standards in participation accessible to an even broader audience.
One of the standout trends of 2024 has been the increasing demand for community engagement in renewable energy projects including negotiations with investors and energy community initiatives. Various projects across the Czech Republic have demonstrated how participatory approaches can foster trust, collaboration, and long-term success. As Anna Wien, our Managing Director, observed, “Renewable energy is becoming an agenda that requires deeper community involvement, and it’s clear this trend will only grow as more investors recognize the value of engagement.”
The global focus on transparency and inclusivity also marked a significant milestone for us this year. Our work in Seychelles and Madagascar, advising national governments on improving participation in fisheries transparency, showcased the potential of collaboration to address complex challenges. This integration of participatory approaches into the blue economy and efforts to enhance ocean resilience is particularly significant. As we face the urgent realities of climate change, fostering inclusive decision-making in maritime contexts represents a vital frontier for ensuring sustainable and equitable solutions.
In the civic tech space, 2024 saw the launch of the Civic Tech Market Report 2025, a comprehensive exploration of digital tools driving democratic innovation across Europe. This milestone allowed us to identify and share insights on how technology can enhance public participation. Our International Director Katya Petrikevich reflected, “Digital engagement is evolving rapidly, and we’re excited to make it a standard practice for large-scale processes. AI, in particular, will be a game-changer, simplifying complex data and fostering greater inclusivity.”
Education and capacity building have also been at the heart of our efforts. Through our Facilitation Bootcamps, we’ve trained a new generation of facilitators ready to champion democratic innovation. Programs like the Participation and Civic Tech Academy for Youth have inspired young people to engage with local leaders and influence change in their communities. These initiatives highlight the growing appetite for participatory planning, the need for higher level of expertise, and the recognition of its role in addressing strategic challenges.
As we look ahead to 2025, the trends of this year point to exciting possibilities. The renewable energy agenda will continue to expand, with systematic participation playing a critical role in achieving ambitious goals like climate neutrality. In this context, we are proud to announce that we will be working with the City of Liberec, one of the MissionCities selected under the Enabling City Transformation Programme, to establish a participatory governance model and build capacity for achieving climate neutrality by 2030. Civic tech will further integrate into governance, leveraging AI and digital tools to make cross-border initiatives more accessible and impactful. Public engagement in strategic infrastructure projects is also expected to grow, signaling a broader acknowledgment of participation’s value.
As we step into the new year, we carry forward the lessons, achievements, and momentum of 2024. More than ever we believe that the world of public participation and civic tech is finally becoming mainstream across various fields and policies, all levels of governments and other organizations. Next year will be a blast!
In the meantime, we are wishing you a festive holiday season and a year ahead filled with inspiration and progress.
The Participation Factory Team