When Tim Dorr launched a monthly coworking initiative at ATDC last fall, he intended to eventually make it a more regular occurrence. Thanks to the permanent use of a new space – the Entrepreneurs Resource Center (ERC) on the first floor of Centergy One – that goal is now a reality.
“When I started the coworking program, I did it without knowing there was this available resource,” said Dorr, an Entrepreneur in Residence for ATDC. “Once I realized members weren’t taking advantage of ERC, I pushed to take over the room and basically rebrand it into a coworking space.”
The ERC has long been an under-utilized resource at ATDC headquarters, despite its vault of articles, tools and research materials designed to guide young entrepreneurs and veterans. Although space is tight and limited to about 10 people, Dorr said the room is ideal for ATDC members looking to enjoy a dedicated and collaborative working environment. From Monday through Friday, participants can now network, compare stories and collaborate on solutions with other fledgling entrepreneurs, as well as receive advice and feedback from ATDC mentors.
The co-founder of Ignition Alley, a popular in-town coworking space, Dorr has seen the benefits of the coworking movement first-hand – touting a synergistic working environment where the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship can be shared.
“If I have a problem with something, I might spend hours researching possible answers and trying each one before finding the solution,” said Dorr, who recently moved his office to the first floor space to better accommodate coworking participants. “But with coworking, I might wind up interacting with someone who has already experienced the same or similar struggles and who might have expertise and insight to offer.”
Although details of the ATDC coworking initiative are still being finalized, the ERC is now available to members between 7 am and 7 pm on weekdays. And for those in need of mentorship, Dorr is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays, so stop by the space for more information.