We’ve moved to Core21 — Oshawa’s first co-working hub! It’s a place where small businesses, organizations and “solopreneurs” share space and resources, keeping overhead low, and networking opportunities high. At Core21, this means that the cost of photocopiers, wifi, front desk reception, kitchen and meeting space are shared amongst the tenants, while the creative energy that comes from neighbourly coaching, collaboration and networking are absolutely free.
For the Spark Centre’s Executive Director, Martin Croteau, it just made sense to make the move. “One of our core values is to support the emerging innovation and start-up community in Durham Region. And to do that, we want to physically be where the action is. We have no doubt that the Core is going to be a hub in that community network.”
Essentially, Core21, and other co-working hubs like it, are ecosystems for entrepreneurs. The physical and technical infrastructure of an office is present, but most importantly, the people needed to fulfill the ‘social capital’ are also there. Co-working colleagues are steps away, and can usually provide all the trouble-shooting, coaching and professional expertise required. If they can’t do it themselves, someone in their immediate network can!
A proponent the pay-it-forward approach to business, Claire Bloddaert, Coordinator at Core21, is enthusiastic about what’s in store. “Core21 is going to be so good for Oshawa and the Region, with all the new grads from UOIT, and others starting up their own businesses. This space takes it a step further than just renting office space. It allows opportunities for collaboration and learning from others.” This very hands-up approach is something Bloddaert wishes she had when starting her own tech business in the “school of hard knocks”. Back then there were no helpers along the way to coach her. As coordinator, it’s her job to help make those connections happen.
General Manager at Core21, Amy Gazdik, is also excited to see the new faces and buzz in the office. After six months of intense work pre-launch, she is planning a grand opening party for September to celebrate and thank all the people who helped to turn their vision into reality.
If you’re interested in co-working at Core21, there are still hot-desks available, 2 enclosed office spaces, and 4 private desks. The big events room can also be rented by members of Core21 and the public for professional events of up to 60 people. Please contact Amy Gadzik for more details.
