Even with digital transformation sweeping across the Western world, trades remain as topical as ever.
With unprecedented levels of immigration stacked on top of unaffordable housing, the need for industrial-level innovation in Canada is tremendous.
That is part of why we’re seeing Alberta companies such as Mercator AI, Arthrotó, and PolarBlock blend tech and industry to advance progress in the field.
But as such a business grows, flexibility to scale can prove a critical factor—yet traditional long-term leases can trap upstarts that need adaptable solutions to evolve optimally.
Alberta-based TradeSpace was “designed for entrepreneurs by entrepreneurs,” according to founders Daniel Delgado and Jordan Tetreau, who met several years ago at a seminar for entrepreneurs hosted in a co-working space.
“We understand that running a business can be challenging because we have been there too,” they explain. “One of the biggest barriers and risk for an entrepreneur is a long term lease. “Whether it’s warehouse space or office space, getting locked-in to a contract is scary.”
In 2018, Delgado and Tetreau launched Canada’s first co-warehouse space offering “flexibility in space for your materials, inventory, and team . . . a space to work-store-collaborate and to build a thriving community.”
Initially launched as a 10,000-square-foot warehouse, TradeSpace now offers more than 100,000 square feet across three locations, serving not only warehouse needs but also office demands too.
“As more and more entrepreneurs discovered what TradeSpace had to offer, the members expanded from trades and construction to light manufacturing and an explosion of e-commerce businesses,” the business states online. “TradeSpace is dedicated to providing a space where entrepreneurs don’t just survive, they thrive.”
TradeSpace promises 24/7 access to entrepreneurs, with ample office amenities including internet, boardrooms, meeting rooms, and common space.
Month-to-month billing, inclusive of utilities, offers straightforward financial planning and flexibility. Warehouse memberships start at $585 per month and office memberships start at $350 per month, according to the firm’s website.
The company is among seven finalists for the 40th annual Calgary Small Business Awards.
Last year’s big winner was Goodlawyer as they took home small business of the year honours for their tech-inspired approach to providing legal services to the city’s startup and tech sector.
This year’s awards gala will take place on Friday, October 20.
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