Cool workspaces and meet-ups in Belfast where you can get creative
Belfast is home to a burgeoning community of start-ups, freelancers and innovators. Here is just a snapshot of the dynamic hot-desking and networking spaces where they operate.
Innovation Factory
A purpose-built hub for innovators just outside the city centre, the space at Innovation Hub was designed by fashion designer and entrepreneur Wayne Hemingway MBE, so it looks as cool as the concepts dreamt up here. Filled with energy and imagination, the hub is a hotbed of entrepreneurial talent and home to a thriving tech culture.
Farset Labs
The community at Farset Labs comprises students, professionals, academics, freelancers, artists and hackers and the ethos is on DIY, experimental learning. If you’re looking for a place to engage in creative thinking and technological tinkering, then the workshops and 24/7 space at Farset Labs could be for you.
The Foundry
Newly-formed start-ups, remote workers and long-established businesses unite in the co-working community at The Foundry. With break-out areas, meeting rooms, private kitchens and reception services, you’ve got plenty of space for innovation and creativity.
Entrepreneurial Spark Hub
Supported by Ulster Bank, the Entrepreneurial Spark Hub helped create 230 jobs and secured £5.3m investment for businesses in its first year. One of 12 Entrepreneurial Spark locations across the UK, the hub provides mentoring, office space and business networking programmes for local entrepreneurs.
Digital Circle
A networking site for the digital industry in Northern Ireland, Digitalcircle.org offers a community platform for digital sparks to showcase projects, contribute content and join group discussions.
Eagle Labs
Backed by Barclays bank, Eagle Labs aims to energise the city’s start-up scene from their base in the historic Ormeau Baths building. The networking site offers expert mentoring, event space, and workshops for Northern Ireland’s community.
Silicon Drink About Belfast
This informal networking groups meets in pubs and are part of a global community of startups powered by local events. Run by volunteers with a passion for creating meaningful relationships, you can share business ideas, challenges and successes over a tipple.
Read more: the Queen’s students slaying the Belfast start-up scene