Boasting more than a dozen coworking spaces, and growing, West Michigan is no stranger to either this operating strategy or these initiatives. Whether you consider yourself a small business owner, an entrepreneur, a creative or just someone with a great idea, you are sure to find a space to meet your needs. Coworking spaces are not just for creatives or designers anymore. They now include options such as community kitchens, testing areas and maker spaces.
Small business owners face a variety of challenges when it comes to growth. From capital and space to employee acquisition and retention, there are a multitude of potential growing pains. Urban LINC launched in 2011 and is part of LINC UP, a nonprofit based in Grand Rapids’ southeast neighborhood that focuses on equitable community development. LINC UP Executive Director Jeremy DeRoo states Urban LINC is generally serving “small businesses, often newer companies that are looking to move beyond the coffee shop but not yet ready to commit to a storefront or permanent location.”