The Candy Factory: Coworking in Lancaster, Pennsylvania

In July 2010, The Candy Factory opened its doors in Lancaster City, Pennsylvania, becoming the first co-working space in the county. Co-working gives a home to professionals, freelancers, students and artisans by providing a quiet unique space to call their own, without the haggle and expense of securing a traditional office.

The founders, Anne Kirby and Max Phillips, partners in Not Bad Design, had contemplated the co-working idea for several years. Not Bad Design helped found the Creative House of Lancaster, and in combination Kirby and Phillips saw the need for networking fellow professionals. When a space came available, they saw it as the perfect opportunity to try out the co-working concept, and now The Candy Factory is a reality.

There are many options to suit the needs of each of their co-workers: part-time, lite, full time and premium membership are available at affordable prices. Each package gives their members options such as general working space, personal desks, and even at the top of the chain, a key to the building! For those interested in just trying out co-working to see if it would be suitable to their professional needs, day passes are available.

In the past few months, The Candy Factory has already expanded by renting an additional space for a private conference room. Recently, they have added parking options for those who do not live in the downtown area.

Kirby has seen the co-working environment help professionals collaborate together on projects, and she has enjoyed using these connections to sub contract work to her fellow co-workers. As they connect with other co-working groups throughout the U.S. and the world, Kirby sees a vital future for The Candy Factory and its members. Co-working is giving expanded opportunities to its members thanks to the creative environment in which all members are exposed and encouraged to network with one another.

The Candy Factory has been an excellent asset to the downtown community, providing space for artists to showcase their work on the walls and to be shown to the public on the First Friday of every month when the city galleries stay open late. Working with the Creative House of Lancaster, they provide an excellent hub of collaboration within the city.

For professionals, artists, freelancers, students and more considering co-working options in Lancaster and surrounding areas, visit http://www.candyissweet.com. Day passes begin at $10, and member packages start at $35 for a month.