Thrive305 > Priorities & Actions > Priority 5 > Action 3

5.3: Create physical and virtual workspace, resource and learning hubs countywide

Issue Statement and Context

Real estate is becoming increasingly unaffordable for many small businesses in Miami-Dade. Pandemic-related closures led to the permanent loss of commercial and office space for an exceedingly large number of businesses that were already struggling with space issues.

Even as Miami-Dade is seeing an increasing number of “co-working” spaces, “shared retail” spaces, and “maker studios” that can make it easier for entrepreneurs and small business owners to secure flexible spaces that are easier to share, maintain, and afford, those options are still out of reach for too many of our entrepreneurs and small businesses.

Most communities outside of affluent, high-density areas are lacking these kinds of flexible real estate options for their local small business community. This limits how many businesses are started in low-income communities by young people and Black and brown entrepreneurs.
Shared workspace.
Image representing "co-working" spaces

Detailed Action Summary

Develop partnerships that support the creation of a countywide network of physical incubators, co-working spaces and maker studios that can provide the tools and networks that entrepreneurs need to launch new ventures.

  • Identify partners that manage and operate affordable business incubators, co-working spaces, and maker studios.
  • Facilitate how these partners secure affordable real estate, including matching them with County-controlled sites and new developments or redevelopments where the County has leverage.
  • Identify County facilities that can host physical incubators, co-working spaces, maker studios, and business education programs.
  • Work with partners to develop and deliver hybrid, virtual, and physical service and resource distribution models.
  • Ensure programming supports legacy businesses to succeed in an economy in transition, including matchmaking and partnerships with digital technology startups.
  • Ensure programs deliver culturally accessible, affordable entrepreneurship training for Spanish- and Creole-speaking residents.
  • Libraries have a large countywide footprint and can be leveraged to reach underserved areas with business support programs. Match libraries with programs (resource fair, small business, or one-to-one assistance) according to size and location.