April 14, 2016 · Team HG
The ladies behind Rebel Rebel Hostel have reached their initial target of €35,000 via crowdfunding, with over 90 investors contributing. Construction of the container hostel in Groningen can now officially begin. The duo expects to welcome their first guests in the summer. Until then, all help is still welcome.
In May 2015, the two entrepreneurs Anika Postma and Anna Liefers won the pitch competition organized for the green shipping container on stilts at the Suikerunie site in Groningen. In February 2016, they launched a crowdfunding campaign via CrowdAboutNow And a few months later, the target amount has been reached, reports the Dagblad van het Noorden.
The idea
The container hostel is the first of its kind in the North. By using alternative and sustainable energy, it bridges the gap between industrial and green. The former Suikerunie site temporarily offers space for innovative developments. Liefers and Postma have responded to this with their movable container hostel and ideas regarding eco-toilets and water purification systems.
The duo wants to offer travelers not only a bed, but also let them experience the ‘full Groningen experience’ by organizing alternative activities. There is talk of alternative walking, cycling, and canoeing tours, BBQ & Beer, vintage shopping, breakfast in bed, outdoor yoga, glow-in-the-dark Twister, nighttime Risk competitions, and more.
First step
The site now contains eight containers, and the first bed has been made. The ladies built the first bed themselves using leftover wood from a Vindicat student association anniversary celebration held on the premises. The installed containers will be converted into three dormitories. Several units will be combined to create a communal space for travelers, where they can cook their own food and enjoy a drink at the bar. Every evening, there will be space in the courtyard for a cozy campfire.
Creation
Since the project was too risky for banks to invest, the ladies decided to launch a crowdfunding campaign. This also creates greater involvement among investors. Not only money, but also goods and knowledge are welcome in the process of establishing the hostel.
The crowdfunding campaign continues for another 35 days; the duo aims to keep going until they reach €55,000, to use this money to develop many more sustainable solutions and offer even more comfort and enjoyment.
You can still invest for more than a month via this page. For more information about Rebel Rebel Hostel, see here the website.
Photo: Facebook Rebel Rebel
