Innovative Hub of Butler: ConnectWork on Main

Located at the heart of Butler, ConnectWork on Main is facilitating a sensory-friendly workspace experience for freelancers, startups, and established businesses in the heart of Western PA. Recently highlighted in an interview on WISR 680 AM with Gael Gilliland, the owner and operator of ConnectWork on Main, the conversation unveiled the innovative spirit behind Butler’s coworking space. The facility not only offers basic office amenities but also fosters a strong, curated community aimed at collaboration and growth. Below you can listen to the episode and/or read a summary of the conversation with a few highlights.

Huge shoutout and thank you to the organizers of the Butler Fall Festival who made it possible for this interview to happen. We've loved having you in the space and can't wait to see all of your planning come to life this year!

Listen to the Episode

What is ConnectWork on Main?

ConnectWork on Main is Butler's coworking space, designed to provide a flexible and affordable office environment suitable for individual and corporate needs alike. As Gilliland describes, “It’s at a base level office space with internet, coffee, and desks – but with chosen coworkers.” This curated community is what sets it apart from traditional offices. Coworking here is more than just sharing space; it’s about building a network and finding collaborative opportunities.

Historical Context and Evolution

The concept of coworking isn't new; it dates back to the 1970s and evolved with executive office suites in the 80s and 90s. The modern coworking movement began about 15-20 (correction: closer to 30) years ago, with ConnectWork on Main operating since the summer of 2017. “People are often surprised to hear how long we've been here, and coworking in general – it's not something I invented,” says Gilliland. The COVID-19 pandemic has only underscored the importance of flexible workspaces, validating the model that ConnectWork on Main championed in Butler, PA pre-pandemic.

The Unique Offerings

ConnectWork on Main is unique in its flexible and tiered membership structure, allowing for various levels of engagement based on individual needs. Membership options include Nomad, Casual, Dedicated, and more, supporting everything from occasional use to dedicated desks and private offices. Many members appreciate this flexibility, especially during times of economic uncertainty where scalability is essential.

The space hosts a variety of programming and opportunities to meet and engage with fellow members. On Mondays, for instance, Social Lunch brings more people into the space, fostering networking opportunities. The adaptability of the space and its autonomous model means that members can come and go as they please, working around their own schedules without the need for constant on-site management.

Community and Collaboration

One of the most significant selling points of ConnectWork on Main is its community-centric approach. As Gilliland notes, “People look for a third place – home, work, and then another community space.” The workspace provides not just a physical location but also a social environment that promotes interaction and cooperation among its members. This dynamic can often lead to personal and professional growth, creating a support system that many independent workers lack.

Who Benefits from ConnectWork on Main?

The member base at ConnectWork on Main is diverse, from software developers to therapists. The space is equipped to support various professional needs – there are quiet zones for focused work, and rooms that can handle small team meetings or even HIPAA-compliant therapy sessions. All memberships are month-to-month with no binding contracts, allowing for maximum flexibility.

Gilliland shared an example of a remote development team that used to meet at a local Sheetz convenience store. They transitioned to ConnectWork on Main, benefiting from a quieter environment that supported their technical needs, illustrating how the space can serve as an agile business solution.

The Impact of ConnectWork on Main

The impact of ConnectWork on Main extends beyond just providing office space, wifi, and coffee. It has become a critical part of Butler’s economic and social fabric. By offering a low-cost entry point (starting at just $30 a month), ConnectWork on Main makes it feasible for budding entrepreneurs and small businesses to find a foothold. This inclusivity helps launch careers and businesses that might otherwise struggle to get off the ground.

Future Outlook

Gilliland's vision for ConnectWork on Main includes continued growth and further integration into the local community. As remote work becomes increasingly normalized, the need for flexible, community-oriented workspaces will only grow.

ConnectWork on Main isn't just about working together; it's about flourishing together. By providing a unique combination of collaboration, flexibility, and affordability, it stands out as a model for what the future of work can look like. Whether you’re a freelancer, a small business owner, or part of a remote team, ConnectWork on Main offers the resources and community you need to succeed. Ready to join? Go here to get started!