ZOE Institute for Future-Fit Economies is an independent, non-profit think tank based in Cologne, Germany. Founded in 2017, ZOE is focused on research and policy development that addresses the social, economic, and environmental challenges of today by integrating new economic thinking into European policymaking.
The institute operates at the intersection of science, politics, and civil society and has established itself as a relevant actor in Brussels and among European public policy networks. ZOE’s team, led by co-founder and executive director Jakob Hafele, collaborates with the European Commission, the European Parliament, and national governments, focusing on implementable economic proposals. Its network includes economists, policy experts, and researchers from across Europe.
Current core activities include advising on transformational industrial policy for the EU's green transition, strengthening governance structures for future generations, and assessing the social return of investment in public services. Ongoing projects such as SWINS, funded by Horizon Europe, explore how investment in education and healthcare can improve wellbeing, while ZOE’s support for the Network of Institutions for Future Generations expands long-term policy thinking at the EU and UN levels.
Additional projects like the Thriving Cities Initiative and work on wellbeing budgets focus on practical tools and guidelines for policymakers. Funding sources include public grants and philanthropic organizations. With a staff exceeding 20, ZOE has published multiple policy recommendations and research reports, gaining recognition for influencing debates around sustainable prosperity and social welfare in Europe.