Start-up Stories with Simon Ellington
2nd December 2021
Start-up Stories with Tristram Norman
1st February 2022
With the plan B measures lifting and the government no longer asking you to work from home we thought it would be a great time to share some FAQs we often get asked about ideaSpace - and that it would be a good idea to put them all in one place! Being part of the ideaSpace community can help with all sorts of things - motivation levels, having someone to chat to while making a coffee, social events - from a relaxed drink in the office to ideaSpace pub lunches and business focused events. If you've had enough of your own four walls we'd love to hear from you.
ONE
So, what are you? A co-working space or a community?
Both! Founders and entrepreneurs join ideaSpace to work alongside others who are also growing their venture. We provide all the things you need for a workspace – a desk, wifi, printer/scanner and a fully stocked kitchen while you can get on with what you need to do. The community aspect comes out of getting to know those around you in the office and attending our events – both social and business focused.
TWO
Do I have to be affiliated with the University of Cambridge to join?
No. You do not need to be involved with the University to join ideaSpace. We are open to all.
THREE
Do you have ‘criteria’ for joining?
We’re here to support founders and entrepreneurs, so if you’re working on something scalable (it doesn’t matter what stage you’re at) and would like to do it amongst other start-ups, then we’re the place for you. We’ll offer you a tour, arrange a chat with the Head of ideaSpace (just to make sure there’s an alignment with what you’re looking for and the ideaSpace community) and then you’re welcome to start. Get in touch with Kirsten Batcheler our Membership Manager in the first instance by emailing enquiries@ideaspace.cam.ac.uk
FOUR
If I join how long am I locked in for?
We’re here to support you – so we make a point of not locking you in. There’s a minimum stay period of a month – but if something unexpected happens then please chat to us.
FIVE
What’s your notice period?
No hidden clauses on this either. Notice period for a Full-Time membership is 30 days and 10 working days for Part-Time.
SIX
What are your opening times?
We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – so you can start as early as you like or finish as late as you need!
SEVEN
Does my membership allow me to work out of any of the offices?
Yes and no. While your membership isn’t interchangeable, if you have a meeting near a different location, you’re welcome to use the office for the day if there’s availability – just chat to your office manager.
EIGHT
Do your locations have parking?
We don’t have parking but we have excellent transport links to all three offices and our West and South offices are close to a park and ride. However, we’re able to reserve a parking space for your guests at the Hauser Forum and there is paid parking close to the City and South offices.
NINE
Is there a bus route to all three offices?
Yes – the U Bus stops right outside all three as well as the station. Buses go every 15 minutes and you can see their timetable here
TEN
Do you have an office close to the station?
Our closest office is ideaSpace City, located at 3 Laundress Lane right in the heart of Cambridge. It sits alongside the River Cam, opposite Queen’s College. It’s a 10 minute bus ride on the U Bus route (use either Pembroke Street stop or Queen’s College) or a 25 minute walk. Our other two locations are on the same bus route - West is 20 mins from the station and South is under 10.
Those are the most common questions we get asked but if you have any others just get in touch.
