VCU to launch co-working space for student entrepreneurs

Published September 1, 2015 by Paula C. Squires

Student entrepreneurs at Virginia Commonwealth University will soon be able to work in a new co-working office space in the University Student Commons, giving theman on-campus spot to launch and grow startups.

The 656-square-foot space, called Founder’s Corner, will be available to all undergraduate and graduate student entrepreneurs at VCU, regardless of major. To gain access, participants must apply and go through an interview process.

“The goal with creating Founder’s Corner was to provide student entrepreneurs with a space to grow and scale their startups,” Dominic Costanzo, program manager with VCU Innovation Gateway, said in a statement “It gives them a place to call their own and the ability to work in a collaborative setting among other student entrepreneurs.”

The new co-working space will open in October.  “Entrepreneurship and innovation spaces are popping up across the U.S., and schools recognize the importance of student-created businesses. And VCU is no different. Our students have amazing ideas for innovative and creative businesses that can have a real impact on the workforce here in RVA, and we’re excited to see these come to fruition,” said Carrie Hawes, assistant director, employer and experiential development, for VCU Career Services.

Besides providing office space to VCU student entrepreneurs, Founder’s Corner also will serve as a hub where they can network, attend professional development events and receive support from Innovation Gateway and University Career Center staff members.