Inspired by co-working spaces I’ve encountered globally and seeking to move beyond the solitude of working from home, Leandro Gomez and I embarked on creating Nicaragua’s first creative co-working space, co-labora. We found a perfect match in the Cultural Center Quilombo, sharing similar spirit and philosophy, and established co-labora as a physical space for freelancers, startups, and innovators to thrive.

What exactly is a co-working space? It’s a professional haven for freelancers, startups, and innovators – an office space equipped with all the necessary amenities like a stable internet connection, coffee, meeting rooms, and a relaxation area. The concept is grounded in responsible consumption: sharing infrastructure, technical devices (like printers), and resources, fostering a more sustainable lifestyle. Besides being cost-effective, the primary advantage for participants is the rich exchange of knowledge and inspiration derived from working alongside professionals from various fields. This contrasts with the stagnation often experienced when working from home, as a co-working space continually fosters professional growth and learning.

In many northern countries, freelancing is already very common, a work model I find commendable. However, in developing countries, where large corporations often exploit the workforce with poor salaries and limited professional growth, freelancing is still a novel concept. Thus, offering an innovative space for individuals eager to take responsibility for delivering quality work presents a fantastic learning opportunity. It’s a space where one can learn about starting up, client relations, pricing strategies, contract management, and more, simply by sharing a physical space with others.

Feel free to visit us at co-labora!