by Mallory Tuttle

The Franklin Business Center is bustling with activity — with 31 current clients the facility and program continues to see great success. In an effort to continue to establish the city of Franklin as an entrepreneurial community that supports and provides resources to our local startup community, a question has been posed: Should Franklin consider offering CoWorking space within our local community? If you are not familiar with the term CoWorking and what it would mean for Franklin that’s OK, I heard of the term for the first time just two years ago. Check out the information below that covers most of all you need to know about CoWorking space.

What is CoWorking Space? The idea of CoWorking began on the West Coast in 2006 by entrepreneurs as is an innovative approach to shared workspace. CoWorking spaces offer a come and go as you please type model for office space. CoWorks are typically open spaces where entrepreneurs can share ideas, network, recruit new talent, etc. CoWorking spaces attempt to break down the barriers between startup businesses and create avenues for cross collaboration between companies and industries. Imagine a coffee shop-style setting with tables scattered about — picture at each table an entrepreneur working diligently on their laptop — now visualize each of these entrepreneurs working together, networking and sharing ideas and feedback. This is the picture of a successful CoWork — just remove the coffee shop and replace it with a formal location.he Franklin Business Center is bustling with activity — with 31 current clients the facility and program continues to see great success. In an effort to continue to establish the city of Franklin as an entrepreneurial community that supports and provides resources to our local startup community, a question has been posed: Should Franklin consider offering CoWorking space within our local community? If you are not familiar with the term CoWorking and what it would mean for Franklin that’s OK, I heard of the term for the first time just two years ago. Check out the information below that covers most of all you need to know about CoWorking space.

What is the Difference Between CoWorking Space and Incubators? CoWork spaces can be described as cousins to the incubator which help in making great partnership opportunities. While the two models have their differences (Unlike incubators, CoWorks do not typically provide business planning assistance and do not require longterm lease agreements.), they both share the same end goal: to help foster a spirit of entrepreneurship and serve as a catalyst for economic development.

Describe a Typical CoWorking User: The typical user of a CoWork is self-employed, a telecommuter, freelance worker or a startup employee/founder/partner who enjoys networking and collaborating with other people.

What Type of Amenities Does A CoWork Offer? CoWorking space typically includes some type of office/work environment (open layout), access to typical office equipment (communal use), Wi-Fi, kitchen, bathroom, lounge, rentable conference room/board room, etc.

After having been provided with a brief summary of CoWorking spaces, I challenge you to ask questions, do some research and share your thoughts and opinions about the potential for offering a CoWorking space in Franklin. Please share any and all feedback that you have by emailing mtuttle@franklinsouthamptonva.com or call 562-1958. Your opinions are welcomed and appreciated.

MALLORY T. TUTTLE is the Business Development manager for Franklin Southampton Economic Development Inc.