Editor’s note: This is the third in a series of profiles about startup hubs across the Triangle. These Startup Guide features appear on Mondays.

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RALEIGH – In an exclusive interview with WRAL Techwire, Raleigh Founded’s Director, Lauren Romer, discusses the 10-year journey of one of Raleigh’s original coworking spaces.

“Back in 2011, 2012, there was innovation happening in Raleigh, but there wasn’t a way for local thought leaders, budding entrepreneurs, and talented individuals to connect freely with one another,” said Romer. “Leaders at the inaugural Innovate Raleigh Summit agreed that if the region was going to move forward, it was time to bring the idea of physical space to fruition. As a result, Raleigh Founded was formed in 2012 and became the first coworking space in the Triangle.”

Lauren Romer (Photo courtesy of Raleigh Founded)

Romer said that because Raleigh Founded (RF) was “born out of a call from the community,” the organization is focused on collaboration. 

“Our ownership group and the leaders of Raleigh Founded choose to promote and not repeat,” said Romer. “RF uses its platform and voice to uplift mission-driven programs, donate event space, and offer free amenities and resources to other organizations to support the amazing work they are doing in the Triangle.”

A lightly edited transcript of the interview with Romer appears below.

Inside Raleigh Founded. (Photo courtesy of Raleigh Founded)

  • WRAL TechWire (TW): You mentioned that Raleigh Founded (RF) is unique because of how it was founded, and because of its focus on collaboration—what else makes RF unique?

Lauren Romer (Romer): A third thing that makes us unique is our set of six core values that focus on themes such as diversity and inclusion and leaving the world better than we find it. 

We use them to make programming, partnership, staffing, and even operational supply decisions. We are always striving to live up to these core values and envisioning new ways to support our community further. 

  • TW: What are you seeing in terms of demand?

Romer: We are seeing a lot of new entrepreneurs who need connections within the ecosystem. People who have been working at a large company for years realize they can have more freedom if they work for themselves but quickly experience the emotional and physical toll that being a founder can take. Many first-time entrepreneurs need guidance on where to start, but they also need a community of like-minded individuals who have overcome similar challenges. 

  • TW: Where is demand strongest? 

Romer: We are seeing a large growth in drop-in day passes. These are typically people whose companies have gone fully remote and are craving human interaction or just a change in scenery from their homes. 

We are also seeing an increase in satellite offices needing office space, such as a company in New York starting a development team in Raleigh and needing to set up a headquarters while they build out their team. 

We are also seeing a large demand for flexible work—even more flexible than what you might think. We have had companies request to share personal office spaces for only a few days a week and rent the office to another company on their off days. 

  • TW: Are there plans for expansion? 

Romer: Raleigh Founded has four facilities with about 100,000 sq ft. We are currently working on a project with The Town of Cary to expand into downtown space that is being revitalized. 

We are also working with the City of Raleigh, the Downtown Raleigh Alliance, and HUBB Kitchens on a Main Street Incubator space in downtown Raleigh that will support food and beverage entrepreneurs through resources, connections, coworking, and test kitchens. 

A look inside Raleigh Founded. (Photo courtesy of Raleigh Founded)

  • TW: What services do you offer at Raleigh Founded? 

Romer: 

  • A member network resource list that members can tap into
  • A jobs board for teams to post to and for talent to use to find great startup jobs
  • Sponsored membership opportunities for budding entrepreneurs
  • Pro bono legal, accounting, and marketing assistance
  • Pitch practice events
  • Networking events 
  • A podcast studio

Members can also meet with one of our founders and staff, who consult and make connections to industry professionals, other entrepreneurs, and helpful programs.

  • TW: Do you have any programs that focus on women entrepreneurs, minority-owned businesses, or veteran-owned businesses? 

Romer: Our sponsored memberships are primarily focused on supporting women, minority-owned businesses, and veteran-owned businesses. The Main Street Program will also focus on these populations.

Our partners who offer free business services also have applications that work to preserve resources for those who have historically not had access to them.

People gather for another event at Raleigh Founded. (Photo courtesy of Ralegh Founded)

  • TW: How have you received support? From local, state, and/or federal government? From corporations? From grant programs? 

Romer: We are primarily supported by the four founders but have worked closely with the City of Raleigh, partnered with value-aligned sponsors, and been awarded grants for specific programs.

  • TW: Who are the founders and what is their philosophy about helping startups and small/emerging companies to grow? 

Romer: Raleigh Founded is owned by four life-long entrepreneurs: Jason Widen, Christopher Gergen, Brooks Bell, and Jes Lipson. 

Something I hear a lot is, “rising tides float all boats” which I think is a great summary of the ownership group’s view on supporting entrepreneurs. They see the value in fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs, small businesses, and leaders in the community so we can continue to create a flourishing ecosystem. 


Fact Box

Name: Raleigh Founded

Locations: 

  • Warehouse: 310 S Harrington St Raleigh, NC 27603
  • Gateway: 2409 Crabtree Blvd Raleigh, NC 27604
  • Capital Club: 16 W Martin St Raleigh, NC 27601
  • Centennial: 1017 Main Campus Drive Raleigh, NC 27606

Contact information: 

  • Twitter: @raleighfounded
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/raleighfounded/
  • Email: info@raleighfounded.com

Website: https://raleighfounded.com/ 

Owners:

  • Jason Widen
  • Christopher Gergen
  • Brooks Bell
  • Jes Lipson 

Mission statement: To foster inclusive communities of entrepreneurship who create lasting social and economic impact. 

Availability: We have space available at our Gateway and Capital Club locations. Private offices start at $500. The average price of a suite is $1500.

Best way to learn more: Check out the website, reach out at info@raleighfounded.com, or stop by the monthly community coworking day.