Small communities are facing a complex challenge: an increasing number of shops and businesses are closing down, leaving empty premises behind them. The IdeaSpace ideas platform from Salzburg Research is holding an ideas competition to find innovative solutions to breathe new life into these premises.

The small market town of Engelhartszell has also been affected by businesses leaving the area. This market town on the Danube is preparing to redesign and reuse premises in four of its buildings. The town is open to innovative, exciting, and feasible ideas, whether the buildings are used as places for people to meet and enjoy culture, as innovative workspaces, or to house new businesses that will enrich life in Engelhartszell.

4 rooms are waiting for a new use

The new “Vacancy is Stagnation” ideas competition on the IdeaSpace ideas platform from Salzburg Research aims at providing innovative solutions for the market town of Engelhartszell. The platform is looking for big and small ideas that will energize the community, strengthen its sense of community, and make Engelhartszell more attractive.

Until November 9, 2025, each person can submit up to five ideas for the following vacant spaces:

Administrative building – Upper floor of the market town hall (2nd floor)

The municipal office building is located in the center of the market town. The vacant upper floor covers approximately 120 m² and contains toilet and shower facilities, as well as a kitchen. Currently, the rooms are only accessible via stairs, as there is no lift.

Upper floor of the former elementary school

The premises cover an area of around 350 m². Toilet facilities are available. The first floor is only accessible by stairs. The kindergarten is located on the ground floor beneath the premises.

Premises on the ground floor of the former courthouse (formerly a postal delivery center)

There is approximately 155 m² of vacant space on the ground floor of the former courthouse. The premises are accessible at ground level and have toilet facilities. There is a large open space in front of the building that could be used as a car park, for example.

Premises in the former Trappist monastery Engelszell (convent)

The convent is located at the back of the building, next to the collegiate church. Spanning around 400 m², it comprises former guest rooms and monks’ cells. Any future use must be compatible with the interests of the diocese and local businesses, such as the brewery, liqueur production facility, abbey shop, and abbey café.

Let your creativity run wild—we especially welcome unconventional, inspiring approaches. Valuable rewards await the best ideas.

Join in and contribute your creativity: for an Engelhartszell full of life!

Be a part of something big – it’s that easy!

Salzburg Research’s IdeaSpace ideas platform is all about your ideas! Help us solve questions and problems by submitting your ideas, working on ideas with other creative minds, and getting honest feedback. We welcome everyone, because good ideas know no boundaries! Discover the power of the network that connects you with like-minded people, experts and exciting institutions and companies.
Join in and shape the future together with us in the IdeaSpace!