VTTA Lunch and Learn: Makerspaces and Economic Development

GENERATOR INC | VERMONT TECHNOLOGY ALLIANCE LUNCH AND LEARN | MARCH 18, 2015

MAKERSPACES AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Vermont Technology Alliance Lunch and Learn

March 18, 2015

Wednesday, March 18, 15


WHAT IS A MAKERSPACE

1. A shared shop with access to unusual tools.



WHAT IS A MAKERSPACE

2. Part of a growing infrastructure to supportthe independent workforce.



CURRENTLY ABOUT...

2,000 makerspaces in the U.S. About half a dozen in Vermont



WHAT IS THE VALUE

Innovations in maker tools Inspired Kickstarter projects New companies and livelihoods



WHAT WE ARE

6,000sq. foot design and fabrication sandbox in downtown Burlington fostering creativity, learning and entrepreneurship.



WHO WE ARE

116 members strong served by 4 staff and 14 board members. Key partners include BCA, UVM and Champlain College.



WHAT WE DO

Foster a vibrant social environment while providing access to essential tools and workspaces that advance creativity and entrepreneurship.



HOW WE DO IT

Offer tiered membership structure, classes and public events that advance creativity, learning and entrepreneurship.



WHAT WE HAVE

• Microelectronics, soldering • Rapid prototyping • Design lab • Jewelry workshop • Coming soon: woodworking and metal



EXAMPLES

• Custom mechanical design, prototyping • Jewelry design and production • Leather mask-making • Edible aromatics • Slate crafts



HOW WE’RE ORGANIZED

• K12 and community education • Outreach and business development • Operations and shop safety • Member and community and management • Volunteer training and coordination



SAMPLE ACTIVITIES

• Girls Make IT workshops • Pitch It, Fab It! • Certification courses • Online member directory • Monthly social hours



DIRECTOR’S UPDATE

Generator Board Meeting

March 17, 2015

WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE







HOW CAN VTTA HELP

• Lasting partnerships that deliver value • Networking and business outreach • Company memberships • Corporate underwriting • Join events and programming • Joint marketing and change Vermont narrative





THANK YOU

Next Up: Matt Flego, M//E Design


Economy & Finance

VTTA Lunch and Learn: Makerspaces and Economic Development