Makerhoods, a live/work program designed to elevate makers, artisans and other creative individuals looking to grow their passions and microbusinesses into thriving businesses, is coming to Newark.
Founder Art Telyas said Makerhoods is bringing the beloved, traditional “living above the store” model — which supported families, inspired entrepreneurship and created sustainable communities for decades — into the digital age.
Makerhoods integrates affordable living, space for light manufacturing, the creative explosion of the “maker movement,” business support and a shared digital platform in support of a completely new paradigm to catalyze economic development.
With housing and commercial space becoming increasingly costly in the region, coupled with the fact that it is becoming more and more difficult to grow and sustain a profitable business, Telyas said Makerhoods’ mission is to help people grow profitable businesses that create prosperity, secure futures and intergenerational wealth.
Telyas said the organization will be taking applications until May 14 for its location in the Central Ward at 601 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., on the corner with Court Street.
For one monthly cost, people accepted into the program receive an apartment, a separate commercial space zoned for light manufacturing to run their business, and business services in an active, supportive community.
Makerhoods offers 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom units, with rents starting at $1,800.
The Newark location will be focused on food & beverage, fashion & beauty and neighborhood service businesses.
Telyas said tenants ideally create products people love to wear, eat, drink, use, gift or decorate with.
“We are seeking to curate businesses that are at their core are artisanal, maker, creative or light manufacturing — that is, things skillfully and lovingly made by hand or produced locally,” he said.
Accepted makers may have a small resell or service component to their business, but the majority of the products should be produced on-site at Makerhoods, he said.
Telyas said Makerhoods will host application assistance workshops. For more information, click here.
“We are so excited to bring this opportunity to the hardworking makers and help them accelerate their business growth through our Live/Work program,” he said. “We can’t wait to watch them thrive.”
