Top 21 Startup Accelerators & Incubators in Malaysia

Malaysia has been on an ambitious journey to become a leading startup hub, with a target of attracting 5,000 new ventures by 2030. As a pioneer in the ASEAN region's digital economy, Malaysia has introduced the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint, establishing itself as a prime destination for entrepreneurial ventures. With its strategic location, advanced infrastructure, supportive policies, and vibrant talent pool, the country is ripe for startup growth. Central to this ecosystem are the accelerators and incubators that help nurture and propel new businesses.

This article provides a detailed list of Malaysia's top 21 startup accelerators and incubators, suituible for startups at different stages, whether at 'ideation', 'launch', or 'growth' stage. This guide will assist you in finding the program that best aligns with your startup's needs.

Understanding Startup Incubators vs. Accelerators

Both accelerators and incubators aim to support startup growth, but they differ in their approaches and timelines. Incubators focus on nurturing early-stage startups by providing essential coaching, mentoring, and infrastructure tailored to develop nascent ideas and businesses. They emphasize personalized support to help startups build a strong foundation.

Accelerators, on the other hand, are designed to rapidly advance startups over a shorter, more intense period. They target companies with more developed concepts, preparing them for commercialization and investment. Accelerators often offer financial support in exchange for equity and end with a Demo Day where startups pitch to investors.

By understanding these differences, you can choose the program that best fits your startup's stage and needs.

Top 21 Startup Accelerators & Incubators in Malaysia

1. MaGIC (Malaysian Global Innovation & Creativity Centre)

MaGIC offers comprehensive support for startups through various initiatives tailored to different stages of business development. Their programs focus on enhancing the skills of early-stage and growth-stage startups by providing mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities. MaGIC’s ecosystem is designed to help startups refine their business models and scale effectively.

• Target: Aspiring entrepreneurs at various stages, including ideation and growth

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 6 months

• Website: MaGIC

2. Cradle Fund

Cradle Fund is an agency under the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, dedicated to supporting technology entrepreneurs through grants and commercialization services. Their programs, such as CIP Spark and Spring, offer financial aid and strategic support to help startups develop and scale their innovations, preparing them for market validation and expansion.

• Target: Early-stage startups with a promising idea or business model

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 6 months

• Website: Cradle

3. 1337 Ventures

1337 Ventures provides a range of programs, including accelerators and venture capital support, to guide startups through various stages of development. Their focus is on helping early-stage startups validate their business models, achieve product-market fit, and access funding opportunities. Their programs offer mentorship and strategic guidance to accelerate startup growth.

• Target: Startups in ideation and growth stages looking for investment and market entry

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Technology, Digital

• Program Duration: 3-6 months

• Website: 1337 Ventures

4. The Hive

The Hive SouthEast Asia provides a nurturing environment for early-stage startups, offering personalized support and a collaborative workspace. Their programs include incubation services, mentorship, and resources to help startups develop and grow their business ideas. The Hive focuses on building a solid foundation for startups through a supportive ecosystem.

• Target: Early-stage startups seeking mentoring, resources, and a collaborative workspace

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 6 months

• Website: The Hive

5. ScaleUp Malaysia

ScaleUp Malaysia is designed for mature startups looking to accelerate their growth and refine their business models. Their program focuses on scaling strategies, revenue growth, and regional expansion. ScaleUp Malaysia acts as an invisible management team and potential investor, providing strategic guidance and support to help businesses achieve high revenue growth.

• Target: Growth-stage startups aiming to scale their operations and refine their business models

• Need to Have an Idea: No

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 6 months

• Website: ScaleUp Malaysia

Read Also: Discover the Top 10 Coworking Spaces in Kuala Lumpur

6. StartupMalaysia.org

StartupMalaysia.org supports startups at various stages since 2011, offering mentorship, funding opportunities, and networking to help entrepreneurs develop and scale their businesses. Their initiatives provide comprehensive support for startups, from early-stage to growth, facilitating access to resources and strategic guidance.

• Target: Startups at early to mid-stage, including ideation and growth phases

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 3-6 months

• Website: StartupMalaysia.org

7. PitchIN

PitchIN focuses on preparing startups for investment through structured programs that include pitch training and networking opportunities. Their goal is to help startups refine their business models and connect with potential investors, ensuring they are well-prepared for market entry and funding rounds.

• Target: Startups looking to prepare for investment and market entry

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 3-6 months

• Website: PitchIN

8. GEG (Global Entrepreneur Group)

GEG supports startups with aspirations for international growth. Their program includes mentorship, market access, and strategic advice to help startups navigate global expansion challenges and opportunities. GEG’s focus is on helping startups develop a global perspective and achieve international success.

• Target: Startups at ideation and growth stages, aiming for international expansion

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 6 months

• Website: GEG

9. Axiata Digital Innovation Fund (ADIF)

ADIF supports digital and tech startups by providing funding and strategic support. Their program aims to foster innovation and help startups scale through financial backing and partnerships. ADIF focuses on enhancing digital solutions and driving technological advancements in the startup ecosystem.

• Target: Innovative startups in the digital and tech sectors

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Digital, Technology

• Program Duration: Varies

• Website: ADIF

10. Tinkr

Tinkr offers incubation support and resources for early-stage startups. Their program includes personalized support, a collaborative workspace, and access to essential resources. Tinkr focuses on helping startups develop their business ideas and scale effectively through a nurturing environment.

• Target: Early-stage startups needing incubation support and resources

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 6 months

• Website: Tinkr

11. Bio-based Accelerator Program

The Bio-based Accelerator Program is designed for biotech startups, providing guidance to enhance business performance through science, technology, and automation. The program aims to help startups achieve technology and commercial readiness for certifications like GMP and Halal. Approved companies can also apply for BioNexus Status, offering tax incentives.

• Target: Early and mature startups with a team

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Biotechnology

• Program Duration: Varies

• Website: Bio-based Accelerator Program

12. Selangor Accelerator Program

The Selangor Accelerator Program helps early-stage startups become investment-ready through a structured 3-month program. Participants benefit from workshops, mentoring, and a Demo Day with a chance to win cash prizes. The program is equity-free and focuses on startups with an MVP or beta version.

• Target: Early-stage startups with a team

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Agritech, Greentech, Smart City, FinTech, HealthTech

• Program Duration: 3 months

• Website: Selangor Accelerator Program

13. Nexea

Nexea offers a range of startup development programs, including venture building, incubation, and venture capital. Their focus is on helping startups from idea formation to growth, providing mentorship, pilot funding, and validation processes. Nexea also offers a repository of ideas for entrepreneurs seeking co-founders or startup concepts.

• Target: Aspiring entrepreneurs with an idea and seeking co-founder

• Need to Have an Idea: No

• Sector Focus: Technology

• Program Duration: Varies

• Website: Nexea

14. 25 Startups

25 Startups supports innovation by helping startups develop and test new business models and technologies. Their incubators focus on sectors like blockchain, agri-tech, and fintech. The program includes access to mentors, educational resources, and a structured environment for innovation.

• Target: Aspiring entrepreneurs with an idea and seeking co-founder

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Blockchain-based Services, AgriTech, FinTech, HealthTech, EdTech, PropTech, HalalTech, InsurTech

• Program Duration: Varies

• Website: 25 Startups

15. Alpha Startups by 1337 Ventures

Alpha Startups by 1337 Ventures is an intensive 6-week bootcamp for early-stage tech startups. The program provides mentorship and access to resources to help validate business ideas and achieve product-market fit. It is free of charge and includes priority admission to funding programs.

• Target: Early-stage startups with a team

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Technology

• Program Duration: 6 weeks

• Website: Alpha Startups by 1337 Ventures

Read also: Kuala Lumpur's Flourishing Startup Ecosystem in 2023

16. WatchTower and Friends

WatchTower and Friends runs a 4-month accelerator program for tech startups. They offer mentorship, advisory services, and up to RM50,000 in seed capital. The program emphasizes strong entrepreneurship DNA and includes a Demo Day where startups can showcase their progress.

• Target: Early-stage startups with a team

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Technology

• Program Duration: 4 months

• Website: WatchTower and Friends

17. Cyberview Living Lab

Cyberview Living Lab provides a smart city environment for startups to test and validate their innovations. The 5-month program offers access to infrastructure and facilities within Cyberjaya, allowing startups to experiment and pilot their solutions before market launch.

• Target: Early-stage startups with a team

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: FinTech, IoT, Robotics & AI, Retail Tech

• Program Duration: 5 months

• Website: Cyberview Living Lab

18. Sunway AI Lab Accelerator

Sunway AI Lab Accelerator is a 4-month program that supports startups in EduTech, Smart City, Digital Health, AgrifoodTech, Retail Tech, and FinTech. The program includes a pre-accelerator phase and access to Sunway's resources, mentors, and testbed environment.

• Target: Early-stage startups with a team

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: EduTech, Smart City, Digital Health, AgrifoodTech, Retail Tech, FinTech

• Program Duration: 4 months

• Website: Sunway AI Lab Accelerator

19. HLB Launchpad

HLB Launchpad is organized by Hong Leong Bank to support startups from any sector that can contribute to the bank's sustainability themes. The 6-month program includes mentorship from HLB's C-suite, business heads, and partners, and provides opportunities for pilot projects with the bank.

• Target: Early-stage startups with a team

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 6 months

• Website: HLB Launchpad

20. Founder Institute

The Founder Institute offers a 4-month global acceleration program with a structured curriculum to help startups at various stages achieve their milestones. The program includes real-world business-building sprints, weekly feedback sessions, and working groups to support startup development and investment readiness.

• Target: Aspiring entrepreneurs with an idea, early, and mature startups

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Sector Agnostic

• Program Duration: 4 months

• Website: Founder Institute

21. MYStartup Accelerator

The MYStartup Accelerator focuses on early to growth-stage startups looking to expand regionally and globally. The program offers masterclasses, mentorship, and funding opportunities, including investments and grants. Participants also have the chance to pilot projects with over 80 corporate partners.

• Target: Early to growth-stage startups

• Need to Have an Idea: Yes

• Sector Focus: Technology

• Program Duration: 6 months

• Website: MYStartup Accelerator

Conclusion - Malaysia's startup ecosystem

Malaysia's dynamic startup ecosystem provides numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs at all stages. Whether you’re in the ideation phase or looking to scale your business, these accelerators and incubators offer valuable resources, mentorship, and funding to help you achieve your goals. Choose the program that best fits your startup’s needs and take the next step towards success.

Discover the Top 12 Coworking Spaces in Bangkok

Bangkok's coworking landscape is flourishing, offering a diverse range of flexible workspaces that cater to the evolving needs of remote workers, freelancers, and businesses of all sizes. As the demand for adaptable work environments continues to grow, coworking spaces in Bangkok have become essential for professionals seeking both functionality and community. Here, we came up with a selection of the top 12 coworking spaces in Bangkok, up and coming and that offer innovative work environments, comprehensive amenities, and vibrant communities.

Find Coworking Spaces in Bangkok for Digital Nomads, Startups and Established Businesses

The Rise of Coworking Spaces in Bangkok

The shift towards remote work and flexible work arrangements has driven the growth of coworking spaces in Bangkok in the past few years. These spaces combine the benefits of a traditional office with the freedom to choose your own workspace and schedule. Equipped with modern facilities such as high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and ergonomic workstations, coworking spaces offer an ideal solution for startups, SMEs, and large corporations alike. Additionally, they provide flexible contract terms and a sense of community, making them an attractive choice for businesses looking to optimize their operations.

What Are the Costs of Coworking Spaces in Bangkok?

Hot desk memberships typically cost between 3,000 THB and 8,000 THB per month (approximately USD $85 to $230).

Dedicated desks are priced between 8,000 THB and 14,000 THB per month (around USD $230 to $420).

Private offices vary from 15,000 THB to 35,000 THB per month (roughly USD $440 to $1,000), with prices depending on the amenities and location of the coworking space.

All Essential Amenities are Available in a Coworking Space

When selecting a coworking space, it's important to consider the amenities that align with your work preferences. Key features to look for include hot desking options, private offices, fully stocked kitchens, high-speed internet, business-class printers, and meeting rooms or even event venues that can be useful to host a gathering for a company event or product launch. Some coworking spaces also offer additional services such as virtual offices, which provide a professional business address without the overhead costs of a traditional office. Choosing a space that meets your specific needs will enhance your productivity and work experience.

Networking and Community Building

One of the major advantages of coworking spaces is the opportunity to network and build relationships with professionals from various industries. Many coworking spaces host events, workshops, and networking sessions, fostering a sense of community and facilitating valuable connections. These opportunities can help expand your professional network and support your business growth.

Sstartup incubators and startup accelerators in Thailand also offer a great way to network and access link minded communities in Thailand. Centers like Bangkok Bank InnoHub and Tech Sauce help Digital Startup entrepreneurs to meet other entrepreneurs, investors and develop their potential in applying digital technology and innovation in the country.

Explore the Top 12 Coworking Spaces in Bangkok

1. WeWork

WeWork Asia Centre

WeWork provides a sophisticated coworking environment with locations such as The Met Sathorn and T-One building. Known for its luxurious and functional design, WeWork offers dedicated desks, private offices, and meeting rooms in a vibrant and collaborative setting.

2. JustCo

JustCo at Silom Edge

Located in prime areas across Bangkok, JustCo offers flexible hot desking and private office solutions. Their spaces are designed to meet the needs of modern professionals, with convenient access to transport links and a variety of amenities to enhance productivity.

JustCo offers great modern venues in various locations in Bangkok, including One City Centre and Samyan Mitrtown.

3. Regus

Regus offers a range of coworking solutions in Bangkok, including flexible workspaces - hot desks and dedicated desks - private offices as well as other meeting and event venues for their members. Their Bhiraj Tower location is well-equipped with essential amenities, providing a professional environment that supports business operations and growth.

Read Also: Discover the top Coworking Spaces in KL

4. LINUXX Serviced Office

LINUXX provides high-quality serviced offices in Bangkok, offering flexible and customizable workspaces. Their Vanissa Building location feature modern amenities and a professional atmosphere, making them an excellent choice for businesses seeking a sophisticated work environment.

Vanissa Building
29 Vanissa Building, 25th Floor, Chit Lom Alley,
Ploenchit Road, Lumpini, Pathum Wan,
Bangkok 10330 Thailand

5. The Great Room

The Great Room redefines luxury coworking with its sophisticated design and premium amenities, offering an elevated workspace experience in Bangkok. Known for its elegant interiors and high-end service, The Great Room provides a perfect environment for professionals and businesses seeking a blend of comfort and class. Each location features beautifully designed private offices, stylish meeting rooms, and communal areas that foster productivity and collaboration. The Great Room’s spaces are meticulously crafted to support both individual work and team collaboration, making them an ideal choice for entrepreneurs, executives, and creative professionals.

Locations in Bangkok:

• The Great Room - One Bangkok: Located in the prestigious One Bangkok complex, this venue offers stunning city views and a range of high-end amenities.

• The Great Room - Gaysorn Tower: Spanning 30,000 square feet across two floors, The Great Room at Gaysorn Tower features breathtaking 360-degree views of Bangkok’s skyline. Located in a vibrant neighborhood with shops, restaurants, and wellness facilities, it is perfect for business travelers and provides direct access to Chidlom BTS station in Central Bangkok.

Whether you're seeking a private office or a flexible coworking space, The Great Room's Bangkok locations provide an exceptional workspace experience with unparalleled service and style.

6. Spaces

Spaces offers a dynamic and innovative coworking environment designed for professionals and businesses seeking flexible, stylish, and functional workspaces in Bangkok. With a global reputation for fostering creativity and collaboration, Spaces provides a range of modern work solutions tailored to various needs. Each location is equipped with contemporary facilities, including vibrant communal areas, private offices, and meeting rooms, all crafted to enhance productivity and inspire connections among members.

Locations in Bangkok:

• Spaces - Summer Hill: Located in the Summer Hill complex, this venue provides a contemporary and creative workspace with a focus on community and collaboration, supported by ample natural light and modern design elements.

• Spaces - Phahon 19: Positioned in a vibrant area of Bangkok, Spaces - Phahon 19 combines modern workspaces with a lively neighborhood atmosphere, offering both flexibility and convenience for diverse professional needs.

• Spaces - M 9 Ratchada: Situated in the heart of Ratchada, this location offers a stylish and functional workspace with excellent connectivity and amenities, designed to meet the needs of modern professionals.

7. LiveWorkAsia

LiveWorkAsia delivers a unique blend of coworking and serviced office solutions, emphasizing the creation of dynamic and adaptable work environments. Their space, located in the beautifully tree lined Sukhumvit Soi 26 in the heart of Bangkok, is designed to enhance productivity while fostering a strong sense of community. This venue offers a versatile range of options, from collaborative hot desks to private, fully serviced offices, catering to a variety of professional needs. Whether you're a freelancer, startup, or established business, LiveWorkAsia provides a conducive environment for both individual work and team collaboration.

Explore their LiveWorkAsia location for more information.

8. Common Ground

Common Ground operates three prominent locations in Bangkok: Common Ground CentralWorld, Common Ground G Tower, and Common Ground Ploenchit. Among these, the flagship venue, Common Ground G Tower, stands out as a premier coworking space situated in Bangkok’s newly developed CBD. This facility is conveniently connected to Pharam 9 MRT Station and Central Plaza Rama 9. Spanning floors 29 through 31, it offers over 1,000 seats with panoramic views of the city skyline. Designed to cater to a diverse range of businesses—from freelancers and SMEs to multinational corporations—Common Ground G Tower features an in-house Starbucks café and a flexible event space that can accommodate up to 150 guests. For more details, visit Common Ground G Tower.

9. Glowfish

Since its inception at Asoke Tower in 2010, Glowfish Offices has been redefining modern workspaces with its innovative "Work, Play, Grow" concept. This approach emphasizes enhancing productivity and supporting business growth. Glowfish primarily serves high-performance local and international startups that embrace a modern, dynamic work culture. The company offers fully serviced, ready-to-use offices, hourly rental meeting rooms, and versatile event spaces for seminars and social events. Currently, Glowfish operates from two key locations: Asoke, which features 1,523 sqm of space, and Glowfish Sathorn, encompassing over 4,000 sqm. Learn more about Glowfish at Glowfish Asoke and Glowfish Sathorn.

10. The Hive

The Hive boasts several locations across Bangkok, with its flagship site at The Hive Thonglor at Piman 49, just off Sukhumvit Road. This expansive facility spans seven floors and features a diverse range of workspaces, including hot desking, dedicated desks, conference rooms, and meeting rooms. The highlight of the venue is its stunning rooftop café lounge and terrace, providing a serene escape from the bustling city below. Hive members enjoy access to all Bangkok locations and can engage in various social, learning, and networking events. Discover more about The Hive Thonglor at The Hive Thonglor.

11. Launchpad Office Space

Launchpad Office Space

Launchpad Office Space stands out as a premier coworking and serviced office provider, designed to foster creativity and community among professionals and innovative companies. Located in the heart of Bangkok's CBD, this state-of-the-art facility spans over 2,000 square feet and features more than 100 large, custom-designed desks, creating an optimal work environment. Launchpad caters to entrepreneurs, freelancers, and international firms with its dynamic atmosphere and comprehensive amenities. The space includes five spacious meeting rooms, a comfortable lounge area with sofas and beanbags, and a range of office options, from private offices for 1 to 16 people to traditional office rentals from 3 to 760 square meters. Explore Launchpad Office Space at Launchpad Office Space.

12. Union Space

Union Space offers an ideal environment for professionals who frequently conduct interviews or meet with clients. This coworking space stands out with its calming ambiance, earthy tones, and relaxed atmosphere. Essential amenities include a coffee lounge, high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and standing desks. What sets Union Space apart is its inviting decor—featuring lush plants, ergonomic furniture, fresh scents, and soothing music—that enhances focus and productivity, making work a more enjoyable experience.

Conclusion: Bangkok’s Top Coworking Spaces

Each coworking space in Bangkok offers a distinctive blend of amenities and atmosphere, tailored to meet diverse professional needs. Whether you’re seeking vibrant networking opportunities, an environment that fosters creativity, or a space designed to boost productivity, these coworking spaces are redefining how people work and collaborate. Bangkok’s dynamic coworking scene allows to improve individual work experiences and also reinforce the city’s status as a thriving hub for entrepreneurship.

Explore Coworking Spaces in Southeast Asia’s Startup Hubs:

• Coworking Spaces in Singapore

• Coworking Spaces in Jakarta

• Coworking Spaces in Manila

• Coworking Spaces in Kuala Lumpur

The Door Guy Matters: Insights On Building Community Through Spaces

“None shall pass” scene from Monty Python and The Holy Grail

As I write this message, I am hanging out in the lounge of an incubator after 43 minutes trying to break through the building — regardless the lack of interest from the door guy in helping me out .

I’ve been to over 100 “entrepreneuship centerish” spaces.

Now I’m hanging out in one in Brazil, which made me conclude the importance of a player generally neglected by such places — be it an accelerator, public entrepreneurship center, a corporate incubator or a coworking space.

The doorguy.

Unless the building’s architecture is one of those without a main entrance, you need a door guy which expresses the culture you want in your space.

Cohesively.

Choices are simple: have the right door guy (read below to understand what “right” stands for) or have none.

The harm of having the wrong Door Guy can be as huge as causing someone who’d be a great mix in your space to turn his back and leave your building even before entering it.

TL;DR. A community center aims to allow connections which may result in exchange of information, learning and resources, read: collaboration.

For such exchange, some things matter — and the Door Guy impacts in but one, but very fundamental: who’s in. And who’s in will define how they interact — and then, other factors play in. Let’s take a look.

1. Who’s in: curation & openness

Before anything: of course you want a high potential, talented and curated crowd to join your community — but curation doesn’t contradict openness.

You “select” your crowd by the invisible filters which attract people to your building — not by making it harder to get in once they are at your door. I know you’re talking about a culture of hustlers — you want that guy who hacks the system to get in — regardless of the grumpy door guy.

But dude.

If you are a centre of entrepreneurship, most likely the dudes who are willing to walk in are not the typical guy who’d break in a “free pizza party”.

Weirdos trying to “invade” entrepreneurship hubs are generally connectors, investors, media, other founders, potential hires… People who could add value if you give them the chance to introduce themselves.

Having the wrong door guy is just like opening up a landing page with a big promise in the headline, but no call to action.

Not even a box where to leave your email, not a contact form. Like: people want your product — but you make sure there is no way they click through. Now make it worse. Imagine there constantly pop-up message jumping in the screen to say: “you’re not allowed to use this page”.

That’s the wrong door guy. It all boils down to loving your user.

Some people don’t. So if you don’t… Maybe managing a building filled with people isn’t your game.

You better leave your doors open for anyone who’s into creation and entrepreneurship and very likely, 1 out of 10 will be a worthless dude — but most of them will may be relevant to what the entrepreneurs need.

Trust serendipity. ;)

2. How they interact. “Floors don’t lie”.

When you aim to become a lighthouse — specially when your building isn’t a “pass through” Starbucks location, but rather a destination, it is important that your entrance is inviting.

Architecture matters. But your door guy can spoil the scene.

The entrance should be inviting and contain hanging out areas, like a lobby which allow random people to collide as they arrive in the space.

If you promote a culture of sharing, you should start promoting that from the entrance of the building, making it easy to access and navigate in.

If your floor plan doesn’t deliver what is expected from the community you are trying to build, specially from the entrance, you’re starting by educating people against the actions you expect them to follow.

Yes, you must have private offices where people focus and get shit done, but here’s the thing: any office building does.

A community space should allow users to navigate easily and follow one more call to action: interact. But they won’t , unless 1) they get in and 2) there are areas where they can freely meet people: an open space, square, cafe, lounge, lobby, etc.

From this — magic can happen.

Proactivity, openness, collaboration. If I’m received by a dude who says I’m not worth their wifi (like he’s talking about Thor’s Hammer), I’ll get inside and behave like an underdog who “doesn’t belong”.

Instead — if I am free to just walk in OR if I am received by this dude who welcomes me in, asks me where I’m from and demonstrates interest in what I do and how he can help me — I immediately turn the “hey, let’s go make friends and help each other mode”.

3. Final thoughts. Give > Take.

First impression matters, and that’s about the importance of the Door Guy.

Overall, the idea is: how welcoming is your space to visitors, from a digital nomad who’s trying to get into the local scene to a local student who wants to learn more about startups? As a community builder, your role is to attract the right people — and give them space to do stuff, making sure they understand how they can use it to everyone’s benefit.

Start from building a culture of trust by believing that people are good, if you just let them be. If I can add an element of giving trust and offering a very welcoming environment, here’s a final tip to add on the Door Guy:

3) Give free wifi for guests. We’re hosting geeks.

But that’s a topic for another text. ;)

Coworking: The Infographic

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