Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Anda CoWork in Granada, an experience that not only allowed me to get a close look at an urban coworking space, but also to explore how we can strengthen the collaborative network between the rural and urban spaces we manage at Anceu. My main goal was to learn how to build an active community, how to design the space to encourage interaction and how to organise events that foster creativity and innovation.
One of the aspects that most appeals to me about coworking spaces, both urban and rural, is their ability to create an environment conducive to innovation, creativity and mutual support among members. These spaces not only encourage collaboration and the exchange of ideas, but also act as an invaluable support network, regardless of geographical location. The community atmosphere that is generated in these places is key to the growth and consolidation of creative projects, and is something I seek to replicate in the rural coworking and coliving spaces we manage at Anceu.
Innovation, Networking and Generational Diversity
My visits to Anda CoWork allowed me to learn about an urban space that encourages interaction and creativity, observing how they design the space and organise networking events. In addition, I was able to share experiences with members of the European Creative Hubs Network (ECHN), a network that connects creative spaces in Europe. These exchanges are fundamental to build a national network to support coworking in urban and rural environments, promoting cooperation and innovation.
During the networking breakfast, I met entrepreneurs of various ages, including young people from the University of Granada, and discovered inspiring projects, such as one focused on rural women, which helped me think of new ways to connect urban spaces with rural needs. What surprised me most was the generational diversity of the members of Anda CoWork. Despite differences in age and background, they all shared a common commitment to creativity and social entrepreneurship. This convergence of interests demonstrates how diversity can enrich collaboration and strengthen community.
Learning from the Locals: Engaging with a Community of Diverse Talents
In addition to visiting Anda CoWork, I took the opportunity to explore other creative hubs in Granada, especially those focused on culture and creative industries. These spaces offered me a valuable perspective on how to integrate cultural innovation into coworking environments. At Anceu, we are working to create an equally dynamic and creative environment, so seeing how the combination of modern and traditional is managed in a city like Granada was inspiring.
But my visit to Granada was not only professionally enriching, it was also an opportunity to enjoy the city and its surroundings. I was able to walk through the Albaicín neighbourhood, lose myself in the streets full of history, marvel at the Alhambra and enjoy the vibrant local life on the terraces. This combination of work and personal enjoyment reminded me of the importance of balancing both facets in any creative project.
All in all, this experience has been very valuable, both professionally and personally. I have learned many lessons about how to improve our community at Anceu, how to strengthen the connections between urban and rural spaces and how to continue to foster a creative and collaborative environment in all our projects. I am convinced that the key to moving forward in creating successful coworking and coliving spaces lies in working together and exchanging ideas between all parties involved, regardless of their location.
