SAN DIEGO–Downtown Works has launched San Diego’s first integrated co-working space and accelerator for entrepreneurs in the San Diego region.
The 15,346 square foot innovation hub, located at 550 W. B St. in San Diego, is the brainchild of San Diego entrepreneurs and co-founders Wolf Bielas, Michel and Samantha Cohen, Edward Adato and Dan Schwarzblat.
Downtown Works is the fruition of over $9 million of investment. It has been built and curated over the last two years by local designers and vendors, including: Samantha Cohen, Liz Calderon, Carrier Johnson Culture, Innovative Commercial Environments and Hyperion Construction. Premiere amenities include: full-service concierge, soundproof sky booths, a rooftop deck with 360 degree views of downtown San Diego, high-adjustable desks, convertible meeting rooms, podcasting and video production equipment, ultra high speed internet, two fully equipped kitchens, a mini market, lockers, complimentary printing and underground parking.
“The entrepreneurial journey can be isolating, however, some of my best ideas have stemmed from collaborating with others,” said co-founder Michel Cohen. “My mentors gave me so much knowledge in my early stages so it was important for me to create a hub where I can mentor and pass down what I’ve learned throughout 30 years in business.”
Downtown Works’ nonprofit accelerator program, set to open early 2017, will house venture capitalists and technology entrepreneurs under one roof. Wolfpack Ventures and Walket Capital are among the first firms to confirm sponsorship of the accelerator program.
“In an era of urbanization, we’ve chosen to specialize in technology that promotes urban innovation and water conservation at every vertical because we strongly believe startups have the ability to create marquee solutions for our city,” said Co-Founder Wolf Bielas. “San Diego is my sandbox, where I work, live and play, but most importantly I want it to be a launch pad for innovation.”
Downtown Works is currently home to startups, including: Rack City Media, Industry Careers, Inc., SnapKnot, Xtreme Planet, Diosys Technologies, KidJo, Segmail and Katy Bray. For more information on Downtown Works visit www.downtownworks.com, or call (619) 535-9675.
