Birmingham is an entrepreneurial hotspot, and you can join in by becoming a part of one of the many flourishing co-working spaces within the city. These spaces are like cost-effective offices and are great for new or small businesses and freelancers alike.
Working in a co-working space can allow you to be more productive, find networking connections, and meet like-minded people. Birmingham has been considered to be the best place to start a business outside of London for 7 years in a row, according to the Centre for Entrepreneurs.
To get a feel for the best co-working spaces the city has available and what those spaces have to offer, keep reading below.
The Custard Factory
The Custard Factory is Birmingham’s creative hub for its digital and creative community. Some of the most influential and innovative companies, both local and international, have set up bases here, including startups and big companies, like ASOS.
The co-working space is located in what was once the factories used to make Alfred Bird’s famous invention, eggless custard, hence its unique name. It is sat between the Birmingham Moor Street and Bordesley train stations, with plenty of car parks and bus stops nearby.
The Custard Factory community consists of over 500 businesses, and it regularly hosts events for its members. Amenities at this co-working space include an on-site cinema, adult crazy golf, cafés, shops, a management team, event space discounts, and other excellent facilities.
The price is £275 per month for a two-person office. You can also contact their sales team directly to create a personalized plan that fits your needs.
The Transfer at The Old Print Works
The Transfer is located in Balsall Heath near Moseley. If you’ve made your home eco-friendly and are a big advocate of the movement, this co-working space prides itself on being eco-friendly and sustainable, which makes it the perfect option for you. Not to mention becoming a member is very affordable.
This space focuses on the health and well-being of its members, and there is even a garden from which you can pick some fresh veggies to snack on. The Transfer at The Old Print Works has over 40 studios for designers, meeting rooms, and 4 communal areas for exhibitions and events.
Some amenities offered by the space include low-cost recreation and music nights, theatre, and workshops at The Old Print Works. There are so many options to take advantage of when the workday ends.
The price for a full-time membership is £75 per month, but if you are a new member, you can either have a one-day free trial or pay £5 for the first week. If you travel sustainably, the membership costs £60 per month, and if you travel sustainably and live in the B12 postcode, the membership is just £45 per month.
There are also several hybrid options to choose from. One day costs £8, and one day each week is £25 per month or £20 if you travel sustainably.
Innovation
Innovation is part of Birmingham City University’s central campus, and it is proud to be part of the region’s leading digital campus. The co-working space is bright, spacious, and colourful, with a dynamic atmosphere that contains some of the brightest tech minds around.
The space offers many amenities, including a network with a growing community of over 150 startups and entrepreneurs, free events, and several business resources.
It costs £20 per square foot each month to rent office space. Access to the co-working space costs £145 per month, and meeting rooms that fit 2 to 14 people go for £25 per hour. You can also get a virtual membership for £40 per month.
Alpha Works
Alpha Works is one of the newer additions to Birmingham’s co-working scene. The co-working space is located right in Alpha Tower, near The Mailbox, so there are plenty of options that suit all needs.
It contains modern office spaces with stunning views of the city. Some of the amenities included are an independent coffee shop run by Sixteen Kitchen, a fully-equipped kitchen with free coffee and tea, 24/7 access, fast broadband, shower and changing facilities, secure bike storage, meeting rooms, phone booths, hot desks, and private offices.
If you can make hot desking work, it costs £10 per day, or you can rent your own desk for £300 per month. You can upgrade to a private office, as well, which will cost £375 per month.
Regus Business Lounges
Regus is a leading provider of high-quality business lounges throughout the world. Each space offers peace, quiet, and convenience for its members. This location is set in Victoria Square.
Regus Business Lounges is home to many international businesses. It also makes an excellent option for travellers, as there are around 2,000 locations globally. The amenities at Regus include fast Wi-Fi, printing facilities, administrative support, ThinkPod desks, conference rooms, designated desks, kitchen areas, networking events, hot desks, and fully furnished offices.
Prices start at £80 per month for access to their lounge space. If you want access to the designated co-working space, it will cost £197 per month. Private office space is £348 per month.
Conclusion
If you are a professional in Birmingham who works remotely or hybrid, try giving a co-working space a try. Each one has its own unique amenities, so you can choose a space that fits your schedule and needs.
There are plenty of extras included with each co-working space membership, like discounts at nearby shops and restaurants. Many spaces also have their own special cafés, as well.
After looking through this list of the best co-working spaces in Birmingham, you should be well on your way to finding a space that is perfect for your needs.