Why AEDC Is Investing in Coworking

Work progresses on the creation of coworking space in the Lehigh Valley. We've met with many independent professionals that have told us about what they expect from the space, including ample networking opportunities, reliable WiFi, limited distractions, and good parking. We hope we can meet all the demands on their wish list and look forward to continued input. While we have met with entrepreneurs, we have also had an opportunity to explain to them why we are investing in the concept.

Coworking in San Francisco

One of AEDC's core strategies in encouraging strategic business opportunities for the benefit of Allentown is to attract innovative people to the city. One way that we hope to do that is to promote entrepreneurship in the Lehigh Valley. Coworking space will provide an environment for networks of creative, independent professionals to work together and grow their businesses. Collaboration should lead to new firm starts and ultimately job opportunities for Allentonians. Professionals in transition can hatch business plans from the community tables with the support of enterprise development professionals and their coworking colleagues. This will boost entrepreneurship in general.


Another big reason for investing in this kind of space to attract innovative people to the city is that we know that regions where people want to live do things like this. Cities that don't have things like this are typically places where creative professionals and entrepreneurs do not want to live. Spaces like this are already popping up all around us, from Lancaster to Philadelphia to New York City. We plan to be their equal.


We expect this to be successful and we want to let you know why.