Spaces joins Innovation Centre

Kelowna’s Innovation Centre has completed four years of construction and has welcomed the global co-working company, Spaces.

The Innovation Centre, at the corner of Ellis and Doyle, is being called the Okanagan’s hub of technology, entrepreneurship and creativity.

“We’re delighted to welcome Spaces to Kelowna. Its bright and motivating atmosphere is a perfect fit for the Innovation Centre,” added Lauren Hjalmarson, Community Manager, Innovation Centre. “After four years of construction, to finish with the addition of a world-class co-working facility like Spaces is to see a vision come to life.”

Hjalmarson said Spaces, an Amsterdam-born creative workspace provider, brings its unique brand of sophisticated European design, modern dcor and creative flexibility to the heart of the city’s vibrant downtown.

“It’s an incredible opportunity for Spaces to be part of the Innovation Centre, and it’s a milestone to be the company that brings the space to completion after years of building an inspiring and innovative community for the Okanagan region,” said Wayne Berger, CEO, IWG Canada and Latin America (IWG owns Spaces). “Kelowna and the entire Okanagan region is developing a dynamic ecosystem of technology and innovation, we’re looking forward to supporting that ecosystem by providing opportunities for accelerated business growth through aspirational workspaces and creative collaboration.”

A 2017 study by the Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission suggested the Okanagan tech sector contributes $1.67M to the region’s economy, has grown year-over-year by 15 per cent (since 2013), and employs 12,474 workers. Additionally, the region is home to 693 tech businesses, a 24 per cent increase since the survey was first commissioned in 2013.

“Spaces has found a home in the Innovation Centre to help support and nurture this strong growth for tech businesses in the region,” said Hjalmarson.