Hoplr

Get to know your neighborhood

Hoplr is a Belgian online platform that has been seeking to better connect neighbors and communities since 2014. In contrast to increasing individualization and globalization, Hoplr focuses on the social and practical capital of the neighborhood. Instead of buying things you would only use once, you can simply borrow them from your neighbors. Handy!

Ladder or plumber wanted, company for a sick elderly person, contacts in your new neighborhood... With Hoplr, you really get to know your neighborhood and neighbors. The platform gives you clear access to material, knowledge, time, volunteers and infrastructure.

For example, are you a do-it-yourselfer, but don't have the right materials for your next job? Post a call and who knows, maybe a neighbor can help. Citizens can borrow or give away items instead of buying or selling, and they can participate in group purchases. In this way, the platform is fully committed to the circular economy.

By encouraging such offline encounters and engagement, Hoplr also aims to re-establish social cohesion. They shift the focus from the individual to the local community and harness the power of the collective to anticipate societal challenges, such as aging, climate change and community care.