mak·er·space | /ˈmākərˌspās/
I started Catalyst Space because I saw a genuine need for a makerspace in Altoona. As someone who was always interested in technology and innovation, I wanted to create a space where people could come together to learn and create. And so I took the plunge and started Catalyst Space.
At first, things seemed to be going well. We were lucky enough to collaborate with a local economic development organization and receive a federal grant to get started. This helped us to build out the space and purchase the necessary equipment.
However, as time passed, I realized that I had made a poor partnership choice. The economic development organization that we were working with ended up choosing the wrong side in a political battle, ultimately leading to the decline of Catalyst Space.
In hindsight, starting Catalyst Space was probably one of the most ambitious undertakings of my life. Looking back through the photos, I wondered what I was thinking when I decided to dive headfirst. But, as I mentioned earlier, I believe there is never a perfect time to do something and that the right time is always now. And so, I took the risk and started Catalyst Space, even though it didn’t turn out exactly as I had planned.
I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who helped make Catalyst Space a reality. From the local economic development organization that provided the grant funding to the members of the community who supported and participated in the space, I am grateful for your contributions.
While Catalyst Space may no longer be in operation, the experience of creating and running a makerspace was invaluable. I learned a lot about entrepreneurship and the importance of choosing the right partnerships.
Thank you again to everyone who was a part of Catalyst Space. Your support and participation helped to make it a special place for the community and will always be remembered.
I invite you to look at the slide show of pictures below to see some of the highlights from Catalyst Space. From the construction of the space to the various events and projects that took place, these photos capture some of the special moments shared at the makerspace.
Thank you again to everyone who was a part of Catalyst Space. Your support and participation made it a special place for the community, and I hope these photos bring back fond memories for those involved.
Necessity is the mother of innovation, and the need to manage a makerspace resulted in the development of Recursion.Space, read more about that venture here.