The concept of co-working isn’t new. But Thomas Buckborough and Christine Brault, who each live in Acton, recognized when they were brainstorming business ideas that it hadn’t yet infiltrated the suburbs. Last June, Buckborough opened SPARK Cowork Space in Acton for individuals to share a workspace and office equipment while networking and learning from one another. Brault, who is manager of the business, had this to say:
Q. What happens at SPARK?
A. We rent desks, offices, and large and small conference rooms for all lengths of time, but we pride ourselves on offering a lot more. We host business seminars, technology workshops, and Meetups, plus we have a lounge and fun events like wine tastings. The owner and I are members of Business Network International and the MetroWest Chamber of Commerce, so those meetings happen here and we share referrals back and forth. It’s professional and social — the best of both worlds.
Q. How does it work?
A. There is a one-time charge of $75 for members to receive a key fob to enter the building, which is locked at all times for safety. They book what they need ahead of time, come in, and get to work. The Wi-Fi is always active and the kitchen is stocked with coffee. I’m serious. There’s a lot of coffee consumed in this building.
Q. Is there a typical member?
A. Right now, we have 26 members who run the gamut. Some individuals work from home, or for bigger companies, but come here to focus or not feel isolated. One woman works in the evenings after she puts the kids to bed and her husband is home. We have software developers and programmers, a financial coach, several business coaches, and a speech pathologist who meets with clients. Then there are businesses that use us for events and offsite meeting space. There is real diversity, and we’re still growing.
Q. Has anyone abused the pet-friendly policy?
A. I joke that I’m going to create a logo that has a snake with an x through it, but so far, I haven’t had to worry. The space here is about getting work done, so if someone has a problem with a pet, then we have to honor it — but we haven’t had any issues. And no snakes.
SPARK Cowork Space is at 358-B Great Road (Route 2A) in Acton. For more information, call 978-451-0831 or visit sparkcoworkspace.com.
Cindy Cantrell can be reached at cindycantrell20@gmail.com.
