When you walk into a makerspace for the first time, it can be overwhelming. There are so many different machines and tools, and it’s not always clear what they are or how to use them. But don’t worry! In this article, we’ll give you a beginner’s guide to starting your own makerspace.
First, let’s define what a makerspace is. A makerspace is a community-operated workspace where people with common interests can come together to work on projects, learn new skills, and share equipment and resources. Makerspaces are often equipped with tools like 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines, but they can also be as simple as a shared workspace with a few basic tools.
One of the great things about makerspaces is that they’re open to everyone. Whether you’re an experienced maker or just getting started, there’s a place for you in a makerspace. And if you don’t know how to use a certain tool, there’s usually someone around who can show you.
If you’re interested in starting your own makerspace, there are a few things you need to consider. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from finding the right location to raising funds and becoming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
1. Finding a Location
The first step in starting your own makerspace is finding a suitable location. Ideally, you want a space that’s large enough to accommodate the type of equipment you want to put in it, and that’s easily accessible to your target audience.
If you’re not sure what size space you need, start by making a list of the machines and tools you want to include. Then, research how much space each one requires. Keep in mind that you’ll also need room for things like workspace, storage, and restrooms.
Once you have an idea of the size space you need, you can start looking for locations. If you’re on a tight budget, look for spaces that are already set up with the infrastructure you need, like plumbing and electricity. You can also look for vacant storefronts or office space that can be leased at a low cost.
If you have a little more money to work with, you can look for a space that’s specifically designed for makerspaces. These types of spaces are becoming more popular, and they often have the added benefit of being located in creative or industrial areas.
2. Raising Funds
Starting a makerspace can be expensive, so you’ll need to raise funds to cover the cost of rent, utilities, and equipment. There are a few different ways to raise money for your makerspace.
One option is to hold events and workshops. You can charge admission for these events, and use the money to cover the cost of running the space. You can also sell merchandise, like t-shirts or hats, with your makerspace’s logo.
Another option is to apply for grants. There are a number of organizations that offer grants specifically for makerspaces. The Maker Education Initiative, for example, offers mini-grants of up to $500. You can also look for grant opportunities from local businesses or foundations.
If you’re having trouble raising money, you can also look into crowdfunding. Sites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer a platform for people to donate money to causes they believe in. You can create a campaign on one of these sites, and set a funding goal. If you reach your goal, you’ll get the money to start your makerspace.
3. Becoming a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit
If you want to start a makerspace, you’ll need to become a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This status gives you a number of benefits, including tax-exempt status and the ability to accept donations.
To become a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, you’ll need to file for 501(c)(3) status with the IRS. The process can be complicated, so it’s best to consult with an attorney or accountant before starting.
Once you’ve been approved for 501(c)(3) status, you’ll need to create a board of directors. This board will be responsible for making decisions about the operation of your makerspace.
4. Creating a Business Plan
Once you have a location and the funding you need, it’s time to start putting together a business plan. Your business plan should include an executive summary, a description of your space, and a marketing Plan.
Your executive summary should give an overview of your makerspace, including its purpose and goals. The description of your space should include information about the location, the size, and the type of equipment you’ll be using. And finally, your marketing Plan should outline how you plan on attracting members and promoting your space.
5. Buying Equipment
Now it’s time to start buying equipment for your makerspace. The type of equipment you need will depend on the focus of your space. If you’re starting a woodworking shop, for example, you’ll need tools like saws and sanders. If you’re starting a space for electronics, you’ll need soldering irons and breadboards.
You can buy new or used equipment, depending on your budget. You can also look into leasing equipment, which can be a good option if you don’t have the upfront capital to buy everything outright.
6. Promoting Your Space
Once you have everything set up, it’s time to start promoting your makerspace. There are a number of ways to do this, including social media, word-of-mouth, and flyers.
You can create a Facebook page or Twitter account for your space, and use these platforms to promote events and workshops. You can also reach out to local media outlets, and see if they’re interested in doing a story on your space.
Finally, you can promote your space by hanging flyers in local businesses, or sending out postcards in the mail.
7. Charging Membership Dues
One way to generate income for your makerspace is to charge membership dues. This can be a monthly or yearly fee, and it can give people access to your space and its equipment.
You can also offer different levels of membership, with different benefits. For example, you could offer a basic membership that gives people access to the space during certain hours. Or you could offer a premium membership that gives people 24/7 access to the space.
8. Offering Classes and Workshops
Another way to generate income for your makerspace is to offer classes and workshops. These can be one-time events, or they can be ongoing classes that meet on a regular basis.
You can charge a fee for these classes, and use the money to cover the cost of materials and instructors. You can also offer discounts for people who sign up for multiple classes.
9. Hosting Events
In addition to classes and workshops, you can also generate income by hosting events. These events can be anything from birthday parties to corporate team-building exercises.
You can charge a fee for these events, and use the money to cover the cost of materials and staff. You can also offer discounts for people who book multiple events.
10. Creating a Nonprofit Makerspace
If you want to start a makerspace but don’t have the funds to do it, you can create a nonprofit makerspace. This type of space is designed to be affordable and accessible for everyone.
To start a nonprofit makerspace, you’ll need to form a 501(c)(3) organization. This process can be time-consuming, so make sure you consult with an attorney before getting started.
Once you’ve formed your organization, you can start raising funds. You can do this through grants, donations, and fundraisers. You can also look into government funding, which is available for some types of nonprofit organizations.
11. Starting a For-Profit Makerspace
If you want to start a makerspace but don’t want to deal with the hassle of starting a nonprofit, you can start a for-profit makerspace. This type of space is designed to generate income, and it can be run like a business.
To start a for-profit makerspace, you’ll need to form a business entity. This process can be time-consuming, so make sure you consult with an attorney before getting started.
Once you’ve formed your business, you can start generating income. You can do this through membership dues, classes and workshops, events, and other services. You can also look into government funding, which is available for some types of businesses.
12. Joining an Existing Makerspace
If you don’t want to start your own makerspace, you can always join an existing one. This can be a great option if you don’t have the time or money to start your own space.
To find a makerspace in your area, you can search online or ask around. You can also check out national organizations like Maker Faire and Fab Lab.
Once you’ve found a makerspace that interests you, reach out to the organizer and see if they’re accepting new members. Most makerspaces have an application process, so make sure you fill out all the required paperwork.
13. Becoming a Member of an Online Makerspace
If you can’t find a local makerspace, or if you want to join a community of makers from around the world, you can become a member of an online makerspace. These spaces are designed for people who want to connect and collaborate online.
To find an online makerspace, you can search online or ask around. You can also check out national organizations like Maker Faire and Fab Lab.
Once you’ve found a makerspace that interests you, reach out to the organizer and see if they’re accepting new members. Most makerspaces have an application process, so make sure you fill out all the required paperwork.
14. Creating a Makerspace in Your Home
If you don’t have the space or resources to join an existing makerspace, you can always create your own space in your home. This can be a great option if you want the flexibility to work on your own schedule.
To create a makerspace in your home, you’ll need to designate a space for your projects. This space can be anything from a corner in your basement to a spare room in your house.
Once you’ve designated your space, you can start filling it with the tools and materials you need. You can buy these items secondhand or find them for free online.
15. Creating a Makerspace at Your School
If you’re a teacher, you can create a makerspace at your school. This type of space is designed to be used by students and teachers alike.
To create a makerspace at your school, you’ll need to get approval from your administration. Once you have approval, you can start raising funds. You can do this through grants, donations, and fundraisers.
Once you’ve raised the necessary funds, you can start setting up your space. You can use classrooms, libraries, and other common areas. You can also look into government funding, which is available for some types of educational projects.
16. Creating a Makerspace in Your Community
If you want to create a makerspace but don’t have the resources to do it on your own, you can always start a community project. This type of space is designed to be used by everyone in the community.
To create a makerspace in your community, you’ll need to get approval from your local government. Once you have approval, you can start raising funds. You can do this through grants, donations, and fundraisers.
Once you’ve raised the necessary funds, you can start setting up your space. You can use community centers, libraries, and other common areas. You can also look into government funding, which is available for some types of community projects.
17. Makerspaces as Businesses
Makerspaces can also be run as businesses. This type of space is designed to be used by paying members.
To start a makerspace business, you’ll need to get approval from your local government. Once you have approval, you can start raising funds. You can do this through loans, investments, and grants.
Once you’ve raised the necessary funds, you can start setting up your space. You can use storefronts, warehouses, and other commercial spaces.
18. Makerspaces as Educational Spaces
One of the most promising applications for makerspaces is in education. Makerspaces can be used to teach a variety of subjects, including science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
Makerspaces offer a hands-on learning environment that can engage students in a way that traditional classrooms cannot. In addition, makerspaces can provide access to tools and materials that might otherwise be unavailable to students.
There are already a number of schools that have started incorporating makerspaces into their curriculum. As the popularity of makerspaces continues to grow, it’s likely that more and more schools will follow suit.
19. Makerspaces as Community Spaces
Makerspaces can also be used as community spaces. This type of space is designed to be used by everyone in the community, not just makers.
Community makerspaces can offer a variety of services, including classes, workshops, and events. They can also provide access to tools and materials that might otherwise be unavailable to members of the community.
One of the most important functions of community makerspaces is to provide a sense of community. These spaces can help people connect with others who have similar interests. In addition, they can offer a sense of belonging to those who might not have access to such a community in their everyday lives.
The Future of Makerspaces
Makerspaces are a relatively new phenomenon, so it’s hard to say where they’ll go in the future. However, it’s likely that they will continue to grow in popularity.
As more people become interested in making things, makerspaces will continue to popping up. This growth will be fueled by the increasing availability of resources and the decreasing cost of tools and materials.
It’s also likely that makerspaces will become more specialized. As maker communities grow, they will develop niche interests and expertise.
