Why Coworking?
The Importance of Locally Owned Coworking Spaces
Locally owned coworking spaces are more than just places to work, they are hubs of innovation, collaboration, and community impact. These spaces serve as vital third places, bridging the gap between home and traditional offices, and their contributions ripple across local economies and social ecosystems.
It’s time for local and state governments to take notice and support the incredible work these spaces do. By recognizing and championing coworking spaces, they can help foster economic growth, community engagement, and innovation at the grassroots level.
The Coworking Passport Program
The Coworking Passport Program is a collaborative initiative powered by The Candy Factory (TCF) in Lancaster, PA, and designed to connect and empower independently owned coworking spaces across Pennsylvania and beyond.
By fostering a network of like-minded spaces, we’re creating new opportunities for collaboration, resource sharing, and community building.
At its core, this program reflects the values of authentic coworking: connection, support, and a commitment to local communities.
It’s not just about providing desks, it’s about building relationships that help coworking spaces and their members thrive.
How Coworking Contributes To The Community
Supporting Local Economies
We create jobs, support small businesses, and keep economic resources within the community. Coworking members often collaborate with and support local vendors, boosting the regional economy.
Fostering Entrepreneurship
We provide an affordable, flexible platform for startups, freelancers, and small businesses to grow and succeed. Members receive access to a network of peers, mentors, and resources that help drive innovation.
Nurturing Connection & Reducing Isolation
Coworking spaces combat isolation by providing a sense of belonging and fostering genuine human connection. Our communities promote mental well-being through collaboration and social engagement.
Enhancing Downtowns & Revitalizing Neighborhoods
Locally run coworking spaces breathe life into urban and suburban areas, attracting foot traffic and vibrancy. By repurposing buildings, we contribute to sustainability and historic preservation.
Driving Innovation
Coworking spaces are hotbeds of creativity where professionals collaborate, share ideas, and launch groundbreaking projects. By hosting events, workshops, and networking opportunities, we help members develop new skills and forge partnerships.
Building Stronger Communities
We serve as a space where individuals and businesses can connect, grow, and give back to the local community. Many coworking spaces actively support social initiatives, nonprofits, and volunteer efforts.
Participating Coworking Spaces
Not a Member Yet?
Find Your Perfect Coworking Community!
Looking for a coworking space that’s more than just a desk? The spaces in our directory are independently owned, community-driven, and committed to creating incredible places to work, connect, and thrive.
Whether you’re seeking a vibrant professional network, a supportive environment, or just a great spot to get things done, these spaces have you covered.
Check them out, and when you visit, let them know we sent you! It’s time to discover a coworking community that feels like home.
Join The Passport Program
Raising Awareness and Driving Support
Our mission is to shine a light on the incredible work independently owned coworking spaces are doing for their communities. Local and state governments have the opportunity to amplify this impact by:
- Offering grants or tax incentives to support coworking spaces.
- Including coworking spaces in economic development initiatives.
- Promoting coworking as a tool for community building and workforce development.
Coworking spaces like ours are doing good, day in and day out, helping individuals, businesses, and communities thrive.
By supporting these spaces, governments can invest in the heart of their local economies and create a more connected, innovative, and resilient future.
Let’s work together to ensure these community hubs continue to grow and make a difference!
Why Now?
The past few years have highlighted the importance of connection and community like never before. Isolation has been a challenge for so many, and coworking spaces play a vital role in combating that, offering a sense of belonging, collaboration, and support.
Independent coworking spaces are more than just places to work; they are third places, hubs that strengthen local communities, nurture creativity, and empower individuals to thrive. As the world redefines how and where we work, it’s the perfect time to support these spaces and the communities they serve.
By launching the Coworking Passport Program,
we’re creating a platform to:
FOSTER CONNECTION
Build relationships among coworking spaces and their members.
AMPLIFY IMPACT
Support independently owned coworking spaces that are deeply rooted in their local communities.
CHAMPION AUTHENTIC COWORKING
Highlight spaces that prioritize connection, collaboration, and creativity over a cookie-cutter corporate approach.
Together, we can build stronger communities, empower independent spaces, and reimagine what coworking can do for individuals and neighborhoods alike. It’s time to reconnect, support, and grow—together.
CONTACT US
POWERED BY TCF
342 N. QUEEN STREET
WAREHOUSE D
LANCASTER, PA 17603
