Best of Chicago 2019: University CoWork

Southside Business Accelerator Dedicated to Woodlawn Economic and Community Development Selected the “Best of Chicago” in CoWorking by Chicago Magazine 2019!

 

“We are honored and grateful to learn that University CoWork was named the best CoWorking Space in Chicago Magazine’s 2019 “Best of Chicago” issue. University CoWork is only a year old, so you can imagine how surprised we were to learn of this recognition – which is a testament to our outstanding members and the vibrancy of our south side community,” said founder David C. Lubin.

Chicago Magazine added the CoWorking / Shared Office category in 2019. CoWorking is one of, if not the most significant trend in the workplace, and is best described as freelancers, entrepreneurs, and companies sharing space and resources through memberships. While there are over 120 shared workspaces in Chicago, University CoWork is the first cowork in Woodlawn and first full-service business accelerator south of the loop. University CoWork offers virtual office mail service, flexible memberships, private desks, shared offices, meeting / conference / training rooms, event space, and private offices.

Chicago Magazine writes: “At long last, there’s quality shared office space for South Siders, with plenty of nine-to-five [24/7 for most members] amenities and reasonable rates.”

University CoWork brings best-in-class amenities to a geographic area that has never had them, and also offers capacity development programming for members and the community. Access to capital and stigma challenges disproportionally effect southside businesses, and University CoWork promotes inclusive economic growth with initiatives related to social media, business credit development, fellowships, and venture capital. It is “an absolutely beautiful, gorgeous space for work and learning,” said Marjorie Tatum. Ray Jackson added that “University CoWork, provides business people an opportunity – at a low entry point – to start their business, and it gives scalability so you can grow your business.”

Members meet one another throughout the course of a normal day as well as at events, many of which are free and open to the public. They include monthly “Lunch & Learn” workshops, Fireside Business Chats, Wine Down socials, member networking opportunities with community influencers, and educational tributes – like one honoring the life and lessons of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “We believe in having programs that feed the mind, and feed the spirit, and inspire you, and inform you, and propel you to success. Take a tour; you’re going to love it here, because we are a community that believes in entrepreneurs,” said Ella Britton Gibson.

University CoWork was created to make meaningful economic and social impact by providing underserved neighborhoods access to downtown-quality business and professional resources within an inclusive and supportive culture. “We have already seen tangible results in terms of members, event participation, increased economic activity, and job creation,” said Lubin. “It’s through making connections, learning, jumpstarting productivity, and thus catalyzing achievement that we measure our success.” Members come from Woodlawn as well as Avalon Park, Back of the Yards, Bridgeport, Bronzeville, Chatham, Englewood, Grand Crossing, Hyde Park, South Shore, the Northside, southern suburbs, and northwest Indiana.

University CoWork provides exceptional, customizable amenities, a caring and supportive culture, and an amazingly affordable price point. It is open to the public Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm, and 24/7 for most members. Individuals interested in learning more are encouraged to book a tour at www.UniversityCoWork.com.