Scot’s third look at Millennials – and how innovation and jobs are being supported close to home.
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With today’s job prospects as challenging as they are for Millennials, going out on your own can be a daunting task. Raising capital, finding space to apply ones craft and gaining access to social resources are just a few of the items on a start up business plan. How does one start?
The sharing economy of course! More specifically, a shared creative workshop environment to test your ideas and apply your burgeoning trade with the support of fellow Millennials. In Vancouver this shared workshop is Mount Pleasant’s MakerLabs.
“MakerLabs is a makerspace that provides you with the tools, space, and skills to bring ideas to life. Join us to make something great.” -Maker Labs
Talking to the people inside the facility most users live in the area and get there by walking, bike or transit. Thus confirming what I thought all along that the remaining light industrial space between False Creek and Broadway needs to resist the urge to become Condos and remain an accessible employment centre for a range of vocations. The irony is MakerLabs is leaving there current location in the coming year as another demolition clause has been triggered for a Condo development. Thankfully I’m told they have found a replacement space in Strathcona.
Here is a testament to the value of a low-risk shared workspace and specifically MakerLabs from good friend Garet Robinson:
As a woodworker/artist, MakerLabs has been integral in helping me expand the products and services that I can offer my clients. MakerLabs offers a few different ways in which you can utilize their services, which include laser cutting, cnc routering, woodworking, etc. You can either hire them to do work for you at a reasonable rate, or you can take one of their workshops (2-4 hours) and pay a discounted rate to do the work yourself. This is what makes their business model completely unique. And if you pay a monthly membership fee, these prices are discounted even more, which works great for me as I am using the machines on a consistent basis.
I took the laser cutting workshop right away and it has been absolutely vital in allowing me to expand my business without sacrificing profit margins. I use the laser cutter on my own regularly and if I ever encounter any glitches, the staff are incredibly helpful in getting me back on track. With my monthly membership, I also have access to the wood shop which is very helpful when I need to use a machine or tool that I don’t have in my own shop.
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I am fortunate enough to have my own shop, but many artisans don’t have access to or can’t afford a full shop/ work space. MakerLabs is a great option for these artists as you can rent work space on a square foot basis at the Lab. In my time at MakerLabs, I have met many great artisans plying their craft, from leather workers to seamstresses to furniture makers. The building is full of talented and creative people which have kept me very inspired. The creative energy is palpable.
I am really grateful for MakerLabs. My business wouldn’t be where it is without it. They have created a space of learning and creativity that isn’t daunting to the newbie but is also helpful for the expert. From young to old, novice to expert, MakerLabs is paving the way in supporting local small businesses and hobbyists alike. It’s a great thing. It’s so great, I almost don’t want the secret to get out:)
Garet Robinson
Owner/Creator of The Uncommon Good Reclaimed Design.
