This article sets out to identify the conditions for fostering cultural vitality and social meeting spaces in neighbourhoods with a concentration of cultural and creative organisations (i.e., cultural or creative districts), some of which are part of the social and solidarity economy (SSE). How can the latter help create places open to residents where people can meet and interact? Does their belonging to the SSE strengthen the social and cultural vitality of these neighbourhoods? Based on qualitative surveys conducted in three neighbourhoods in France – in Nantes (Les Olivettes), Marseille (Le Panier) and Grenoble (Berriat) – the positioning and role of cultural and creative organisations of the SSE are analysed. These organisations appear mainly (65%) driven by the desire to engage with residents through concrete activities while profitability comes second.

This article sets out to identify the conditions for fostering cultural vitality and social meeting spaces in neighbourhoods with a concentration of cultural and creative organisations (i.e., cultural or creative districts), some of which are part of the social and solidarity economy (SSE). How can the latter help create places open to residents where people can meet and interact? Does their belonging to the SSE strengthen the social and cultural vitality of these neighbourhoods? Based on qualitative surveys conducted in three neighbourhoods in France – in Nantes (Les Olivettes), Marseille (Le Panier) and Grenoble (Berriat) – the positioning and role of cultural and creative organisations of the SSE are analysed. These organisations appear mainly (65%) driven by the desire to engage with residents through concrete activities while profitability comes second.