A new entrepreneurial space is opening for Gilbert-based entrepreneurs at the Southeast Regional Library called SPARK Space, according to the Gilbert Office of Economic Development.

SPARK Space opens Thursday, February 25 at 4:30pm.  SPARK Space is a partnership between Gilbert, the Southeast Regional Library and Arizona State University Entrepreneurship and Innovation Department to deliver ASU Startup School and business resources for companies.

“Libraries have always served as the heart of their respective communities, making knowledge accessible to drive economic development,” said Ji Mi Choi, associate vice president of strategic partnerships and programs and Arizona State University. “The new SPARK Space at the Southeast Regional Library in Gilbert will use entrepreneurship resources available through ASU’s Entrepreneurship Outreach Network to empower local small business owners to help grow their neighborhoods and communities.”

Last year, the Office of Economic Development worked collaboratively with the Parks and Recreation department to create SPARK Space at the Southeast Regional Library.

“Supporting small, locally-owned businesses and entrepreneurs is a team effort in which Gilbert, business leaders and educational institutions all play a vital role,” says Gilbert Mayor John Lewis. “Together, we are improving the small business setting by offering a collaborative work and learning environment through SPARK Space; a place that will provide mentorship opportunities and the tools to help Gilbert entrepreneurs grow.”

At SPARK Space, entrepreneurs can expect to find:

  • Free Business programs; workshops, webinars, streaming videos, collaborative work environment, etc.
  • Access to the library database and workforce development resources
  • Access to Gilbert resources and business assistance
  • Free WiFi
  • Meeting room available for reservation

SPARK Space is also a partnership with Gilbert’s SPARK App League, a program focused on teaching students to code. SPARK App League is in collaboration with Arizona State University’s Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering and is sponsored by Google.

The official launch of the SPARK Space on February 25 from 4:30pm – 6:00pm at the Southeast Regional Library.