The future of international cooperation relies on developing new forms of active involvement of EU citizens and institutions, as much as methods that allow communities to innovate their socio-technical approach to resources and their overall distribution. Specifically, the global economic situation and the evolution of the geopolitical arena stimulate small and medium organizations to situate themselves differently than in the past, both in terms of external accountability and internal goal-setting. These changes are also facing our challenge provider Mazingira.org, a small NGO working on environmental protection and social inclusion in Italia and Tanzania. After a long experience in the implementation of SDGs with participatory and community activities, Mazingira is searching for innovative ways to involve citizens and institutions and has given us the spring for this challenge. In accordance with this view, our participants will discuss the aims of international cooperation with the support of experts and teamchers, and explore the topic adopting a future-oriented and culturally-informed perspective.