Indiegogo is committed to accessibility. If you have difficulty using our site, please contact support@indiegogo.com for assistance or view our accessibility notice by clicking here

This campaign is closed

Signal de La Grave

Let's create the future of La Grave together!

You may also be interested in

Caret Left
Caret Right
Closed
Closed
Closed
Closed
Closed

Signal de La Grave

Signal de La Grave

Signal de La Grave

Signal de La Grave

Signal de La Grave

Let's create the future of La Grave together!

Let's create the future of La Grave together!

Let's create the future of La Grave together!

Let's create the future of La Grave together!

Joost Van Zundert
Joost Van Zundert
Joost Van Zundert
Joost Van Zundert
1 Campaign |
La Grave, France
$64,792 USD $64,792 USD 1,012 backers
136% of $47,313 Fixed Goal Fixed Goal
Overview
Deep in the Southern French Alps lies the 12th century village of La Grave. A world renowned outdoor Valhalla with a unique atmosphere. The lift that makes the community thrive is about to be taken over by a large corporation that wants to engulf this authentic ski village. We believe La Grave belongs to the community. So, let's take matters into our own hands and preserve this place!

Giveaway to celebrate our funding!

 

To celebrate that we reached 100% funding  (we are so happy)… We would like to organise a GIVEAWAY for our backers.

Rules: You must be a backer of the project by the end of the campaign (our goal is to get at least 1250 people backing the project! So let’s try to make this happen together :)). We will choose three winners with an innocent hand :).

Thank you so much K2 Skis, Black Diamond, Marmot and of course Patagonia to support our project!

Things to win:

 

1. Current Situation

What started this ball rolling? An article about the possible loss of one of the most authentic mountain villages in the world: La Grave.

For decades La Grave has been a paradise for free riding, cycling, mountaineering and for those who live there. The beauty of this place strikes any visitor right in the heart. Inhabitants and mountaineers feel part of a very unique community of people, intrinsically connected with the alpine surroundings.

This very special balance between man and nature is at risk however! 

The lift that makes this community thrive is due for a new lease. The lurking danger is that large corporations will bid for the contract and will engulf this authentic ski village.

We absolutely want to protect the authenticity of this magnificent alpine village. We believe that La Grave belongs to the community. Without the lift there is no community and without this community there is no lift. Our aim is to take matters in hand and to do justice to this place.

 

Un résumé en français de notre projet peut être trouvé ici.

 

 

2. Our Plans

We have formed a non-profit, with the mission to boost sustainable development in the region and obtain the lease to the lift. What we need to focus on, is straightforward, La Grave's unique and authentic strengths namely world class:

  • skiing
  • snowboarding
  • MTB
  • cycling
  • climbing
  • hiking

But to make this happen we need two things.

First, we need to demonstrate to the Mayor that we really represent the interests of the people who love La Grave in its unique form. By donating money to us — even just €10 — you will be giving us your vote of support. We will register your name on a large sign at the entrance to town, for all to see.

Second, we need money to pay for a small staff to initiate the plans we have formally submitted to the Mayor at the end of October. This staff will also secure the further finances necessary to upgrade the lift over the coming few years. So while any donation is good, the more you can donate, the better you will help us reach our goal.

 

Here is our call to you: each euro you contribute will be a message to world and the village that we can do this together!

 

Le Signal de La Grave in the press:

French:

International:

 

 

3. Steps taken

For the non-profit!

We founded the non-profit Le Signal de La Grave early October. This non-profit embodies our love for the wild surrounding of La Grave and its region. 

For the lift!

In August 2016 we have examined the tender documents and processes. Our team formally registered our interest and we visited the Téléphérique on August 4th. We also initiated visits to other elevator infrastructures of the same type, particularly those of Verbier and Courmayeur.

After careful study of the tender documents, we think agreeing to all tender terms is not viable. Only big operators with other agendas could agree to such terms. We are convinced that it is possible to submit a non-fully compliant response to the tender document. 

We have submitted the tender under our preferred terms to propose to the « Commune » an alternative approach, integrating the operation of the Téléphérique in a comprehensive sustainable soft local development program in line with our values.

This would take the form a « Public Private Partnership » harnessing the enthusiasm, resources and funding of all stakeholders. The non-profit - together with all of you - would act as an anchor and sponsor. 

If we don't get the lease of the lift we will be committed to striving for a more sustainable and inclusive future for La Grave. 

 

4. Commitment to Sustainability

We believe that we must all contribute to giving the world a more sustainable future. This is why we want to place this project in a wider context of trying to make La Grave a benchmark for sustainable village operations. We hope that our project may prove that harmony between man and nature is important and possible.

To make the push toward a more sustainable La Grave we will focus on the following points:

  • international alliances
  • 100% sustainable energy
  • local food production
  • waste to resource

Summing up, we want to make the village sustainable by focusing on its strengths and long-term opportunities. Our ideal is to make La Grave the greenest and most authentic outdoor village in the world!

 

5. You can help to reinvent the Alps

We need to show the world and the Mayor of La Grave that the community is alive and kicking and that there are grass-root options apart from the big corporations with a lot of capital. The community wants to safeguard the village it is so attached to.

By backing this project you show a commitment to a brighter future! You will state that special, authentic places have a right to exist on their own. You give the message that not everything should be part of an ever-growing large scale corporation. 

This project can have an impact on the way people experience the mountains and alpine culture. Mountain villages are unique and fragile and need to be managed in a caring and dedicated way!

 

6. Risks

As we have pointed out, we are only small fish trying to fight against ski resort giants. But we hope to have sensitised you of what is at stake. We can only win this battle if we can show the commune (i.e. the elected people of La Grave) what a conscious, convinced and thriving community like La Grave is capable of: namely presenting a long term view in a responsible way.

We are committed to do our utmost best to fulfilling all the perks we have presented to you. If the lift would end operations we will try to come up with a good alternative that has the same value as the one you have chosen. 

 

 

7. Other ways you can help

This campaign is part of a movement aspiring to a new kind of localism. It is inspired by people who care for authentic experiences in perfect harmony with nature.

If you share this belief and if you have some time to spare, do not hesitate to share, like and spread the word as much as you can. It is only when we stand together that will we do justice to this place.

So spread the word and help us try to reach people who might be interested in our cause! Check out our Facebook page!

 

8. Investments in Lift

We have investigated the investments required to keep the lift going. The following picture shows how we see the ratio of the investments. Together with our investors we are still improving and optimising the allocation of the budgets so as to invest rightly and effectively.

In the following we shed more light on the different costs.

  • Cabines: they need to be refurbished. The door locking system needs to be updated and the windows need a makeover so that the wonderful environment is more visible during the ride up!
  • Sustainable energy: our goal is to set an example of sustainability in the niche of mountain villages. We partnered up with a company that would install solar panels to make the first move toward  green energy.
  • Downhill MTB: La Grave is best known for skiing but this terrain is not only special for winter sports, it has a high potential for downhill mountain biking too, and we want to stimulate it.
  • Ticketing system: the ticketing system is outdated. We want people to be able to pay with their smartphones. This should all be upgraded so that is quick and easy. The aim is to boost the service level which should be top notch.
  • Restaurant: the restaurant at 2400 m needs some repairs. We will have to boost the consumption of local products in all the restaurants and this new assortment needs new kinds of presentation as well.
  • Building at 3200 m: the building at 3200 m is situated in an extraordinary spot. The view is amazing! People should be able to drink coffee there, have a chat and enjoy the exquisite environment.
  • Lift configuration: they are very important parts of the lift and thus need to be taken great care of. We will give the pylons a new layer of protective coating to make sure they withstand the coming decades of bare weather conditions. The engines that drive the lift need a facelift. We could invest in more energy efficient systems that would diminish the need for energy.  
  • Electric circuit: all the circuits need renewed official approval and thus serious upgrades. This is very important to make the lift safe and reliable.
  • Varia: next to the points we elaborated on above we also need to do some smaller investments. We need an updated website containing the new ticketing system. We need to repaint the stations (P1, P2, P3). We need to buy new working stations for the employees. Some ground works are required for safety reasons. 

 

9. Contact

Please contact us with feedback or great ideas! You can always reach us via our Facebook page or on signaldelagrave@gmail.com.

 

Looking for more information? Check the project FAQ
Need more information
Let us know if you think this campaign contains prohibited content.

Choose your Perk

La Grave Saving Angel

Currency Conversion $11 USD
€10 EUR
Thank You!!! Your name will be added to a very large poster of La Meije that will be visible when entering the village of La Grave!
Estimated Shipping
January 2017
114 claimed

La Grave PostCard

Currency Conversion $16 USD
€15 EUR
Get a postcard of a beautiful picture of La Grave from the famous local photographer Bertrand Boone! Your name will be added to a very large poster of La Meije that will be visible when entering the village of La Grave!
Estimated Shipping
January 2017
Only 7 left
Ships worldwide.

Sweet La Grave Honey

Currency Conversion $47 USD
€45 EUR
Get a pot of honey (500ml), harvested in La Grave. Wish you sweet dreams after savoring this wonderful local product! Your name will be added to a very large poster of La Meije that will be visible when entering the village of La Grave!
Estimated Shipping
January 2017
41 out of 100 of claimed
Ships to European Union, United States of America, United Kingdom

T-Shirt Show Off

Currency Conversion $53 USD
€50 EUR
Get a beautiful "Original La Grave" T-Shirt made by a local ski shop in La Grave! When you wear this, you'll be part of the community for sure! Your name will be added to a very large poster of La Meije that will be visible when entering the village of La Grave!
Estimated Shipping
January 2017
170 out of 250 of claimed
Ships worldwide.

Raclette Alp Servit

Currency Conversion $79 USD
€75 EUR
Enjoy a French raclette for 2 people! This is a portion of take away raclette! Your name will be added to a very large poster of La Meije that will be visible when entering the village of La Grave!
Estimated Shipping
December 2016
9 out of 50 of claimed

Ski equipment maintenance!

Currency Conversion $79 USD
€75 EUR
Make sure you slide through the pow in the most efficient way possible. It's very important to maintain your gear, so get a quick fix at SkiSet! Your name will be added to a very large poster of La Meije that will be visible when entering the village of La Grave!
Estimated Shipping
December 2016
1 out of 150 of claimed

Rent Fat Skis for a Day

Currency Conversion $105 USD
€100 EUR
Rent a day of fat skies in the beautiful shop Objectif Meije! You shouldn't miss this experience, it is life changing! Your name will be added to a very large poster of La Meije that will be visible when entering the village of La Grave!
Estimated Shipping
December 2016
8 out of 100 of claimed

See La Grave Every Day

Currency Conversion $158 USD
€150 EUR
Get a 60 cm x 40 cm picture of the breathtaking view from the village printed on MDF. The hanging glaciers with La Meije towering above everything. The photograph is taken by Ptor Spricenieks a La Grave (and ski world) living legend! The picture you get is the one in seventh position under the movie of this campaign (the printed version will not be distorted). Your name will be added to a very large poster of La Meije that will be visible when entering the village of La Grave!
Estimated Shipping
February 2017
40 out of 200 of claimed
Ships to European Union, United Kingdom, United States of America, Canada

Goat Cheese Delight

Currency Conversion $184 USD
€175 EUR
Adopt a La Gravian goat and get € 50 worth of extremely tasty goats cheese! No shipping available, local pick-up! And of course, please come and pay me a visit when you are around! Sincerely, Your goat!
Estimated Shipping
January 2017
6 out of 20 of claimed
Ships to European Union

La Grave Dinner Time

Currency Conversion $210 USD
€200 EUR
Join us for a wonderful dinner at le Vieux Guide. You can also choose to savor the dineer without us interfering :). You get a voucher that is worth € 75! Your name will be added to a very large pster of La Meije that will be visible when entering the village of La Grave!
Estimated Shipping
December 2016
1 out of 100 of claimed

Day of Down Hill MTB

Currency Conversion $252 USD
€240 EUR
Get a day of down hill MTB in La Grave with Charley Scemama. This offer is for a group between 1 - 4 persons. Your name will be added to a very large poster of La Meije that will be visible when entering the village of La Grave!
Estimated Shipping
December 2016
1 out of 100 of claimed

1 Night in the Village

Currency Conversion $289 USD
€275 EUR
Get a one night sleep over in Hotel Castillan for two people in halfboard (diner and breakfast). Hotel Castillan is located in the centre of the village right in front of the Télépherique. Classic hotel with great after ski and magnificent food! Your name will be added to a very large poster of La Meije that will be visible when entering the village of La Grave!
Estimated Shipping
December 2016
3 out of 50 of claimed

Parapente Experience

Currency Conversion $315 USD
€300 EUR
Fly over the magnificent nature and village of La Grave on a tandem parapent flight. This opportunity is brought to you by Confidenciel! Your name will be added to a very large poster of La Meije that will be visible when entering the village of La Grave!
Estimated Shipping
December 2016
2 out of 20 of claimed

Meidj’eau Canyoning

Currency Conversion $421 USD
€400 EUR
Canyoning with Philou around La Grave for 6 people for 1/2 day, included wetsuits! Your name will be added to a very large poster of La Meije that will be visible when entering the village of La Grave!
Estimated Shipping
December 2016
0 out of 50 of claimed

Snow Shoe Expedition

Currency Conversion $526 USD
€500 EUR
You are welcome for a day of snow shoeing! Get a group of friends together (1 - 10 people) and enjoy a relaxed day of sightseeing and exercise! Your name will be added to a very large poster of La Meije that will be visible when entering the village of La Grave!
Estimated Shipping
December 2016
0 out of 15 of claimed

2 Night Sleep-Over

Currency Conversion $578 USD
€550 EUR
Get a two night sleep over in Hotel Castillan for two people in halfboard (diner and breakfast). Hotel Castillan is located in the centre of the village right in front of the Télépherique. Classic hotel with great after ski and magnificent food! Your name will be added to a very large poster of La Meije that will be visible when entering the village of La Grave!
Estimated Shipping
December 2016
0 out of 15 of claimed

Day with a Guide

Currency Conversion $631 USD
€600 EUR
Get a day with a guide from le bureau des Guides of La Grave or with Snowlegend. Groups are welcome between 1 - 4 people! This is a rather unique experience. You learn a lot and get to know the corners of the valley that you wouldn't otherwise dare to think about! Your name will be added to a very large poster of La Meije that will be visible when entering the village of La Grave!
Estimated Shipping
December 2016
3 out of 10 of claimed

Soirée Turbo Dancing

Currency Conversion $1,051 USD
€1,000 EUR
Do you know the feeling when trying to describe an experience and words fall short. A "Soirée Turbo Dancing" is one like that. Joy and calorie burning assured! Brought to you by Serge! This is only available in a range of 200km from La Grave! Your name will be added to a very large poster of La Meije that will be visible when entering the village of La Grave!
Estimated Shipping
December 2016
0 out of 10 of claimed
sold out

T-Shirt Show Off

Currency Conversion $53 USD
€50 EUR
Estimated Shipping
January 2017
250 out of 250 of claimed
Ships worldwide.
sold out

1 Night in Refuge Chancel

Currency Conversion $173 USD
€165 EUR
Estimated Shipping
December 2016
15 out of 15 of claimed
sold out

Day with a Guide

Currency Conversion $631 USD
€600 EUR
Estimated Shipping
December 2016
10 out of 10 of claimed

You may also be interested in

Up Caret