> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://fabcity.gitbook.io/handbook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://fabcity.gitbook.io/handbook/becoming-a-fab-locality.md).

# Becoming a Fab Locality

<figure><img src="/files/TXd7SpT92tw29ktWeXV3" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Who can Join the Fab City Network?

Any city, region, island or country with a clear vision for promoting local production and building regenerative communities is welcome to apply, provided they are able to mobilize strong local support for this vision.

### Why Join the Fab City Network?

The [Fab City Network](https://fab.city/network) is a global collaborative platform where cities, regions, islands and countries work together to accelerate the transition toward regenerative, locally productive and resilient futures.

Members join in an official capacity because they believe their local sustainability efforts are enhanced through collaborative network participation and shared knowledge.

Your Benefits as a Member:

* **Global Amplification:** Showcase your local initiatives, projects and knowledge to a global audience.
* **Program Access:** Become embedded as contributors and leaders in year-round programs and projects organized by the Fab City Global Initiative. These programs are designed to provide access to resources, funding and expertise across cities and regions.
* **Knowledge & Community:** Regularly participate in global events for knowledge exchange and community building, sharing working practices with aligned collaborators.

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### What are the Application Requirements?

To successfully apply to join the network, your locality must meet the following requirements:

#### **Form a Consortium**

A robust, three-part consortium to lead your Fab locality:

1. Policy & Governance: A government department, policymaker's office, or policy think-tank to guide the local strategic plan and align with national priorities.
2. Local Production & Innovation: A Fab Lab or makerspace to foster local production and digital fabrication.
3. Research & Academia: Drive evidence-based research, lead the development of the Fab City Full Stack strategy, and provide data for policy evaluation.
4. Business & Private Sector: Provide the economic pipeline, drive commercialization of locally made products, and identify market demand for distributed manufacturing and local Fab City initiatives.
5. Community & Engagement: A community or development organization to ensure citizen participation and promote local interests.

#### Official Commitments

1. A signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) by the consortium partners.
2. A Commitment Letter from the mayor or relevant government representative of your locality.

#### Strategic Documentation

1. A completed Ecosystem Map of your locality.
2. A completed Fab City Strategic Plan.

### What is the Application Timeline?

The application process is designed to be continuous and self-paced, running year-round. The timeline below outlines the key phases, leading up to formal acceptance and the Pledge Ceremony.

| Phase                       | Activity                                                                                                      | Timeline                                                     |
| --------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------ |
| Open Call Period            | Dedicated outreach for new potential members.                                                                 | Three months post-Fab City Summit (annually)                 |
| Phase 1: Initial Assessment | Expression of Interest (EOI) submission, internal review, introductory call.                                  | Up to Two Weeks                                              |
| Phase 2: Community Building | Consortium formation, ecosystem mapping, strategic plan development, and final MOU/commitment letter signing. | Up to Three Months after the initial EOI contact (if needed) |
| Phase 3: Final Decision     | Complete application submission and final internal review.                                                    | Up to Two Weeks after the application is submitted           |
| Phase 4: Onboarding         | Final pledge ceremony form completion and preparation for the official ceremony.                              | Up to Four Weeks after acceptance                            |


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