Ideaspace is a makerspace that is going to be built in D.C. and opened around February 2014. The website, which includes a digital image of what it will look like, says that it offers “access to a state-of-the-art maker lab, open collaboration space, classes and experiential workshops, and world-class speakers and events.” The idea of a public makerspace has been tossed around in Montgomery County to allow small businesses, classes, inventors, and creators alike to discuss plans or collaborate ideas. Similar to a kitchen incubator, a makerspace is public space (that may or may not require a membership) for different purposes.
The creators of Ideaspace offered 100 introductory memberships that sold out in a week. This fact foreshadows that ideaspace will be a large success and that many locals will be interested in such a concept. The memberships are being offered at $99 a month for access to the space’s public lounge, innovation materials, metal and wood shops, painting a welding stations, private rooms, white boards, and even a recording studio. They are using the pitch that “anyone will be inspired” in a space like this, and anything can be created.
Based on the popularity of Ideaspace, which will be solidified in February 2014, Montgomery County can gain insight on whether or not this will be successful for us. In a county with many entrepreneurial residents, a makerspace could be an excellent idea incubator. For an article in Ideaspace click here.