The Co-op has launched The Federation, a co-working community situated in the centre of Manchester, designed to attract the North’s digital innovators and businesses.
Part of Manchester’s NOMA redevelopment, the Co-op has leased eight floors, covering a total of 8,100 sq ft. An investment of £1.59 million was made for the fit-out, with an additional £0.5 million allocated for start-up operating costs.
A Hub for Digital Innovation
Despite not officially launching, The Federation is already 75% occupied, with no active marketing efforts. This highlights the high demand for such innovative spaces in Manchester.
The initial two floors feature flexible desk spaces, thirteen private offices, meeting rooms, a coffee shop, and event spaces. These facilities are offered at preferential rates with a Co-op support network, catering to start-ups and growing enterprises.
Commitment to Alternative Economic Models
The Co-op is committed to increasing the number of technology companies exploring alternative economic models such as co-operatives, community interest groups, and social enterprises.
The Federation aims to cultivate a space where responsible digital innovation is celebrated, and where digital pioneers can share and learn from each other.
Facilities and Future Plans
The Federation will host a user research lab, ‘Fed Lab’, for short-term rental by third-party organisations and existing occupants. This lab will feature high-spec equipment for product prototyping and testing.
Tech firm ThoughtWorks occupies the fourth floor, and the third floor houses Equal Experts, Northcoders, and the Big Lottery Fund. The Co-op’s digital team has been working on two floors since October 2016.
Fed Lab is expected to provide businesses with a viewing and recording room to trial and test product prototypes thoroughly.
Community and Economic Responsibility
The Federation aims to be more than just a workspace. It intends to encourage businesses to invest and grow by using technology to drive positive change.
One of the key initiatives includes connecting young people with opportunities and addressing diversity in STEM through reaching out to schools.
Additionally, there will be subsidised access to a public events programme, focusing on pivotal elements in the digital economy and society, with an emphasis on open data.
Support from Greater Manchester Leadership
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has expressed his support for The Federation by highlighting the city’s ambitious plans to become one of Europe’s top five leading digital cities.
Burnham stated, “As a proud co-operator, I am pleased to see The Federation bringing co-operative values to the development of the digital economy. This will ensure that we build a more inclusive approach to digital Greater Manchester and help more businesses succeed.”
Strategic Location and Vision
The Co-op’s decision to base The Federation in the heart of Manchester is strategic, further cementing the city’s reputation in the digital realm.
Steve Murrells, CEO of the Co-op Group, has underscored the importance of cooperation, stating that the world works better when we cooperate.
The Federation is poised to be a major hub for digital innovation in Manchester, promoting social change and economic responsibility.
With strong support from local leadership and a clear vision for the future, The Federation is set to make a significant impact on the city’s digital landscape.