Integreat – a multilingual integration platform for newcomers to Germany

Integreat is a free digital platform providing multilingual local information for newcomers to Germany. Municipalities manage and update content, which can be accessed via an app or website. The platform enhances participation and reduces the burden on advisory structures.

Project goal

The goal of Integreat is to ensure that lack of access to reliable, understandable and local information is no longer a reason for social exclusion or unequal opportunities among newcomers.

The platform empowers migrants and refugees to participate independently in society by giving them digital access to essential services and rights. It aims to foster social inclusion through multilingual, locally tailored information and to strengthen municipal integration work by reducing information gaps and supporting low-threshold communication.

How it works

Municipalities create and manage content in a central editorial system. Tür an Tür – Digitalfabrik - an organisation that seeks to leverage the opportunities offered by digitalisation to promote integration work - provides technical support, training, and networking. Information is available both online and offline via the app and web platform.

Who benefits

Newcomers (refugees, migrants, skilled workers), especially those with limited German skills. Reach: several hundred thousand users annually.

Funding

The initiative is funded by municipalities, public grants (e.g., 'Demokratie Leben!'), and Google.org. Open-source and volunteer contributions serve to reduce costs. The budget varies by municipality.

Start date: 1 Jan 2015
Project locations: Germany

Project website: Tür an Tür – Digitalfabrik gGmbH

Topic

Participation
Service provision
Technology

Results

The platform had over 4.5 million page views in 2024; 62% in languages other than German. High satisfaction is reported by users and municipalities, and evaluations confirm significant impact on access to information and participation.

Evaluation

Academic studies (such as the MIS Quarterly 2024) and user surveys confirm positive impact. Indicators include usage statistics, satisfaction, accessibility, and improved autonomy.

Research elsewhere concludes that the Integreat app promotes the social inclusion of refugees through three key digital platform mechanisms:

Openness: By offering multilingual content (including rare languages), being open to various information providers and supporting simple language, Integreat ensures refugees have one-stop access to clear, understandable information. This openness also enables equal and informed dialogue between refugees and counsellors.
Generativity: Using nationwide information templates, distributing content maintenance among many actors, integrating third-party resources such as job listings, and fostering cross-sector collaboration, the app provides up-to-date, trustworthy, and sustainable information. This, in turn, facilitates refugees’ entry into the job market and local communities.
Network Effects: Through public licensing of content, a search-engine-optimised web app, and additional engagement channels, Integreat makes information accessible through multiple channels and strengthens refugees’ integration into local communities.