What is Idea Works? Is Idea Works a good fit for me?
Idea Works is a non-profit designed to provide education, resources, mentorship, and a shared community to aspiring entrepreneurs of all ages. In doing so, we will become a critical center of gravity for entrepreneurial development and in turn, help businesses start, grow, and succeed.
Our members pay for use that funds the facilities, and we also receive donations that allow us to provide programming and tools to support our organization’s mission.
What’s the contact information for Idea Works?
419-610-2100
www.ideaworksohio.com
Coworking
Where are you located?
40 W. Fourth Street
Mansfield, OH 44902
Is this a traditional lease? Or something different?
Different. Everyone at Idea Works applies to be a member. There is no cost to apply and it’s easy to do so. Application helps our leadership team get to know you and what you are looking for from us. It also helps us make sure we are a good match for each other.
There are no leases to sign or long term commitments. A couple of things to note:
- We require that membership dues are paid via automated transactions on your credit or debit card.
- We do not trade membership for services (no barter system)
- Either you or Idea Works can cancel a membership at any time with 30 days’ notice.
- If you are a dedicated desk member, personal belongings must be cleaned out by the end of your last day or all items become property of Idea Works.
What if I need to have a personal conversation at work?
In a coworking space, we get to share information. We all learn from each other and grow our skill sets, networks, and connections. Keep good relationships with your fellow coworkers and understand when a conversation is personal or private.
When you need to have a private conversation, make use of the private spaces.
May I use the refrigerator, microwaves, and the break room?
Yes. Label your stuff if you want to make sure it stays yours. We will periodically ask people to clean out the fridge and dispose of old items. You’ll receive fair warning.
We normally have beer in the fridge, cause we’re cool like that. Respect the law, youngsters.
Who cleans the place?
Idea Works has a cleaning service once per week, but use common sense. If you spill something, clean it up. We are ALL on-site janitors.
Put trash where it belongs. If it is too big to go in a regular trash can, take it out to the dumpster. If you see the kitchen garbage can overflowing , do not keep adding more trash and hope for the best. Take the bag out and take it to the dumpster.
We have a separate dumpster outside for recyclables.
Can I use common spaces and conference rooms?
You can reserve these easily by using our shared Google calendars. Common area maximum capacity is 100.
I have a backpack membership. Where should I sit?
Anywhere you want that is not already occupied by someone else. The only off-limits areas are dedicated desks / offices that members are using as permanent spaces.
I have an intern(s). Can they visit Idea Works as part of my membership?
We are intern-friendly. Please use common sense and courtesy. If the intern spends more than 10 hours / week at Idea Works and / or becomes an employee of your company, you will need to purchase a membership for them.
Can I bring my kids to Idea Works?
We understand that life happens and you sometimes need to bring your kids to Idea Works. Please use common sense and courtesy to other members by keeping your kids close, entertained, and (reasonably) quiet.
Idea Works does not offer child care or other kid-specific services at this time.
Is there a lactation room?
Yes, we have a lactation room. The former server room has been transformed into a quiet, comfortable area for mothers to feed their children or pump milk whenever needed. This room is available to members and their guests. If the door is closed, please knock before entering.
If you need a quiet room to make phone calls or conduct webinars, this room may be used. Use your best judgement, this is not your own private office.
Breastfeeding women take priority in this space.
What are your policies on pets?
We have a part time shop dog, Summit. Due to the nature of our space and out of respect for other members, please do not bring animals to Idea Works. There may be isolated situations where we can bend that rule, but this requires advance permission from the site manager and possible coordination with Summit’s schedule.
May I bring guests?
Please use common sense and courtesy. If the guest spends more than 10 hours / week at Idea Works and / or becomes an employee of your company, you will need to purchase a membership for them. Please understand that the behavior of your guest is your responsibility and if they break the rules, it’s on you.
Is there a podcast studio?
Yes, and it is available to members who …
- Are dedicated desk members and have completed a training course on how to use the gear and are willing / able to self-produce.
- Are podcast members and have completed a training course on how to use the gear and are willing / able to self-produce.
It is also available to non-members for $125 / hour. Note that you must complete a training course before use.
Is there video editing gear?
The video editing equipment is available for members to use. We have a recent PowerMac and the Adobe CC editing suite. You must bring your own external storage device and not leave any files on the Mac’s internal drives. The video editing room must be reserved ahead of time.
Non-members may use the video editing gear for a fee of $125 / hour. They must complete a training course before use, or have demonstrated knowledge of the gear.
Additional questions?
Amy is at the front desk to help!
Amy Rehbein
amy@ideaworksohio.com
419-610-2100
Cooking
Where are you located?
144 W. Third Street
Mansfield, OH 44902
Is this a traditional lease? Or something different?
Different. Everyone at Idea Works applies to be a member. There is no cost to apply and it’s easy to do so. Application helps our leadership team get to know you and what you are looking for from us. It also helps us make sure we are a good match for each other.
There are no leases to sign or long term commitments. A couple of things to note:
- We do not trade membership for services (no barter system)
- Either you or Idea Works can cancel a membership at any time with 30 days’ notice.
What is required for me to become a kitchen member?
You’ll need an insurance policy for $1,000,000 liability coverage naming Idea Works as additional insured. Your insurance agent can help you with this.
You’ll also need to provide evidence of a minimum Level 1 Person in Charge Food Safety certification.
Do I need to reserve time in the kitchen, or just come in and start cooking?
You’ll need to reserve your time in the kitchen to make sure we have the equipment available that you need.
How do I schedule use of the kitchen?
We have an online Kitchen Reservation form that you complete and submit to request kitchen time.
Is there a calendar showing when the kitchen is booked?
Yes, we have an online calendar that allows all members to view kitchen availability.
What amenities are available?
Glad you asked! Of course we offer a newly renovated kitchen with equipment, coolers and dry storage. We also offer: Free parking; easy load in/load out access; use our address as your business mailing address.
Do you have an idea for a food business that you don’t see mentioned?
We love new and unusual ideas. Don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Additional questions?
Korinna is our Director of Operations and she is happy to talk with you.
Korinna Goettel
korinna@ideaworksohio.com
419-565-4495
Podcast Studio
Where are you located?
40 W. Fourth Street
Mansfield, OH 44902
Inside the Idea Work coworking building.
What are the requirements to use the podcast studio?
- As a member: You must be a “dedicated desk” member and have completed a training course on how to use the gear, and be willing / able to self-produce.
- As a non-member: Have completed a training course on how to use the gear and are willing / able to self-produce. Note: Non-members will pay an hourly fee to use the studio.
How do I book the podcast studio?
Members can book the studio through a shared Google calendar and non-members can contact us to reserve studio time.
Additional questions?
Amy is at the front desk to help!
Amy Rehbein
amy@ideaworksohio.com
419-610-2100