Frequently Asked Questions
What in the world is Coworking?
Coworking is a style of work that involves a shared working environment. It’s a group of people who are working in a shared space, even though everyone could be working for completely different businesses.
It’s a way to stay productive, build connections, and save costs of traditional office space.
What are the other people like at the office?
They’re awesome! Our members are a cool mix of different professions who are all striving to improve ourselves and our businesses. The coworking style is self-selective in that it attracts people who are open to work around others and are interested in mutual improvement. Some of our members develop software and websites, some write book, some help guide people to healthier living, some work in marketing and design. All are friendly, helpful, and respectful.
How fast is the internet?
We have a fiber-optic internet connection provided by NITCO. Our membership includes access up to 1 Gbps (1,000 Mbps) for both uploads and downloads. It’s the fastest internet in Valparaiso, Indiana!
Are there any deposits or long-term commitments?
As a space for entrepreneurs, freelancers and remote workers, we know having flexibility can make a world of difference. Entrepreneurship is already risky enough, so we do not have any extra set up fees, deposits, or long-term commitments for normal membership. We take on that risk so you don’t have to.
For virtual office spaces, and members who need a mailing address, we require a 6 month commitment to prevent any sort of funny-business while protecting the address for everyone else.
What kind of coffee do we have?
We buy organic, direct trade and fair trade beans from, well, all over the place. Let us know if you have a preference, and we’ll cycle it in! Our main go-to roasters right now are Dagger Mountain of Valparaiso, Yaggy Road Roasting Co from a group of students at Valparaiso University, and Smalltown Coffee Roasters out of Highland, Indiana.
Are there enough places to sit and work?
We have absolutely enough office space for our members now and in the future. We haven’t run out of space before, and we’ll expand our own square footage before we cross that bridge.
What if I just want to go to the office and not talk to anyone?
Then you’re totally allowed to do just that. If you just want to put in some earbuds, bury your face in your monitor, and crush work, then please do so (we’ll just make sure there’s enough coffee for you to go all day and night).
What does everyone wear there? Is there a dress code?
Members are welcome to wear what they please. Normally folks are in casual mode, but if you want to rock it in pajamas and a hoodie, then you’re more than welcome. If you think today should be a black-tie event, be our guest (and bring the champagne).
What should I do about eating during the day?
We have a few different options for you. For one, we usually try to keep some fruit and other brain foods out in the space to snack on. If you like bringing a great meal from home, then by all means store it in our fridge. If neither of those ideas sound like they fit your mood, or if you are looking to experience a little more of downtown Valparaiso dining, then we have a whole bunch of lunch places right around the corner. Check this out – Google Map for lunch near downtown Valparaiso.
Where should I park?
Ah, the great question of parking in downtown Valpo. Check out this video one of our members called Aradise did on parking in Valpo. We’ve all heard it before, that “no one likes to go downtown because all the parking spots are taken.” But the thing is, they’re taken because people like to be downtown. And so do we. Parking in Valpo is pretty easy once you get the hang of it. If you are going to be in the area for less than 3 hours, just park in a green zone or a parking lot. If you’re going to be in all day, park north of Jefferson St.
For our professional memberships and private offices, the coworking space hooks you up with a parking permit. Problem solved!