Who Pays for the Commons? Business Model and Financing for Mobility as a Commons Schemes

Abstract This paper explores the introduction of a new shared mobility solution entitled “Mobility as a Commons” (MaaC). MaaC refers to a concept where mobility services are collectively managed, accessed, and used by a community rather than controlled entirely by private actors or by the state. MaaC, as an innovative transport solution, is successfully implemented within the Netherlands Mobility Living Lab of the EU-funded GEMINI project where residents are encouraged to move away from individual car ownership to sharing their vehicles with each other, achieving a less car-centered urban mobility system and promoting mobility justice. We present a SWOT analysis of MaaC concept and propose a business model based on the Osterwalder canvas. The business model specifically focuses on the provision of a shared, collectively governed mobility solution alternative to private car ownership and sharing of physical assets and information, emphasising the communities and users sovereignty, sustainability and environmental dimensions of MaaC. We also explore potential financing strategies for the sustainable implementation of MaaC and make recommendations on how to maximise value for all the players involved.