I’d walked past Input Cowork in the heart of downtown Nanaimo many times before I decided to go inside to check it out. It’s Nanaimo’s only tech and design-focused co-working space, and I was unsure if I would fit in. But upon entering, I was pleasantly surprised. I was greeted by their Community Manager, Adelaide Russell, who was genuine and kind. She offered to give me a tour, and even a free trial day. When speaking with her about what Input Cowork offers, Russell said, “We provide a space for startups, remote workers, and recent graduates to become part of Nanaimo’s business economy.”
The space is bright, and emits creative energy. Wooden desks, bright windows, and green plants create a calming atmosphere for working. I love the fact that it is a dog-friendly space. If you are needing a break in the day, there is a ping-pong table upstairs next to the communal kitchen. Input Cowork also offers bike racks for members who want to cycle to work, as well as two showers in the building. If you need to hold a private meeting or event, there are bigger more secluded rooms for rent as well. Each week the space offers “Lunch and Learn” workshops from 12:30 pm–1:30 pm, featuring topics such as yoga, meditation, tech and design workshops, environmental meetings, and local coffee tastings. These activities create a vibrant and engaging environment that encourages members to get together and build a community. They offer local coffee throughout the day and occasionally bring baked goods for members to enjoy.
Joel has been a member of Input Cowork since the space opened one year ago. He’s an IT consultant who used to work from his basement. “I enjoy coming to work here because I get to interact with people, and it has a huge sense of community. I’ve made friends and networked with other members,” he said.
Riley has been a member for six months. She teaches monthly lunchtime yoga and works remotely at Input Cowork five days a week. “I love laughing and I always find myself happy at Cowork. There is such great energy here,” she said.
As a young professional looking to expand and connect in the community, deciding to join Input Cowork was a no-brainer. I am inspired by my surroundings, and I love that it is extremely affordable when compared to other co-working spaces. To rent a desk at The Hive, a co-work space in Vancouver, it would cost $499 per month. At Input Cowork in Nanaimo, a dedicated desk is only $250 per month for 24/7 access. I highly recommend heading downtown to check them out; it could be the perfect new spot for you.
Contact hello@inputcowork.com for inquiries, or come stop by their downtown location for a visit at 38 Victoria Crescent, Nanaimo, BC.
Editor
Kaleigh StuderKaleigh Studer is a third-year Creative Writing Major and the new Arts Editor of the Navigator. She grew up in Nanaimo and loves all the opportunities the west coast has to offer. Mountain biking, swimming, traveling and brewery hopping are some of her favourite activities with friends. After living in Berlin for two years her passion and a keen eye for art and culture grew. She is excited to be searching out local stories and events taking place in Nanaimo.
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