Mainebiz

V O L . X X X I I N O. X X S E P T E M B E R 7 , 2 0 2 6 10 S TA R T U P S / E N T R E P R E N E U R S H I P M aine is home to more than 20 coworking spaces across cities and small towns offering a range of services that go beyond a flexible work space and internet connection. Member perks range from networking and support groups to gyms and, in at least one case, even beer on tap. Seven new locations have opened just since 2023, and the Greater Portland region alone is home to eight spaces — all providing flexible options for entre- preneurs and small businesses operating in a broad range of industries. (See our list, page 20.) Spaces range widely in size, scope of services and aesthetics. Most offer a choice of membership levels — from day passes to weekly, monthly and annual arrangements — and include broadband access, office supplies, 24/7 availability and a dedicated business mailing address. Some offer more private offices or larger meet- ing rooms. Many have soundproof phone booths, and some boast fitness spaces, showers and kitchens equipped with espresso machines. Regardless of the business model, they all afford entrepreneurs the opportunity to connect with peers. at is, in fact, one of the main draws for joining. Building community and businesses "e point of coworking is the community develop- ment piece," notes Sean Ireland, founder and co-owner of Union + Co., which occupies 15,000 square feet across two buildings in downtown Bath. "at's central to our programming, which is focused on supporting the arts and economic development." Ireland has redeveloped a number of downtown Bath buildings, including Union + Co.'s two hubs at 48 Front St. and 31 Centre St., with 95 total members. Ireland says he and partner Mandy Reynolds, who co-owns and manages Union + Co., joke that they're one of the largest employers in town, alongside Bath Iron Works and Bath Savings Bank. "Ninety-five members have an enormously out- sized impact on the downtown economy, because our members support Bath's brick and mortar busi- nesses," Ireland says. At coworkHERS in downtown Portland, founder and owner Heather Ashby says community building is integral to her operations. When Mainebiz had a recent tour, we were struck by the variety and abundance of spaces to work and collaborate. ere are offices for private lease as well as meeting rooms, lounges, four kitchens, a mini gym, rooms for therapists and nursing mothers, treadmill desks and four phone booths. In addition to the physical amenities, members can join monthly member lunches and several sup- port groups, including one called hotflasHERS (for women of a certain age). P H O T O / T I M G R E E N WAY At Union + Co. in downtown Bath, the large open space at 31 Centre St. is also available to host events. The point of coworking is the community development piece. — Sean Ireland Union + Co. F O C U S WORK TOGETHER, GROW TOGETHER Coworking spaces offer member perks well beyond desks B y T i n a F i s c h e r

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