Work & Business
A ‘Gateway’ To Success: New York’s Swedish Coworking Space
NEW YORK – It was a dreary day, but that didn’t stop us from taking in the 360-degree view of Midtown Manhattan from the 29th floor of the Swedish American Chamber of Commerce of New York’s new coworking space.
We were greeted by Yasmina Backström, head of communications for the Chamber, who gave us a tour of the 20,000-square-foot space and told us a little bit about Gateway, the New York chapter’s recently launched platform for Swedish-American entrepreneurs.
“Gateway began because the Chamber was getting calls from members needing day-to-day support, referrals and business matchmaking, and we realized the best and most effective way we could do that was by gathering members and partners into one communal space,” Backström said.
While Gateway might have a physical address (900 Third Avenue), it is so much more than just a place on the map. The stunning, Scandinavian-design-inspired spot is a program meant to support and connect Swedish innovators in the States.
“Gateway is shaping up to be a business and innovation platform for everything Swedish,” Backström said. “It is primarily for Swedish entrepreneurs and scale-ups moving into the United States in need of business support, innovation and acceleration services and an active support agent here in the U.S.”
Its mission is simple, but easier said than done: to support organizations’ visions for the U.S. market – be it to establish, grow or accelerate – and make it a reality. By bringing in a number of talented, diverse partners, both Swedish and American, the Gateway team has created a network of resources for its members.
Membership ranges from resident to nonresident packages, so whether you are a one-woman show looking for business programming and an occasional place to set up shop to a full-fledged corporation needing a permanent workspace, Gateway accommodates both.
In addition to the coworking space, members have access to a wide range of business development services and programs like bookkeeping and legal services, market coaching, mentorships, roundtables, conferences and investment matchmaking. To see the full list of member amenities, check out the Gateway website.
After speaking with many Swedes during the course of our magazine’s tenure, we’ve come to realize that Swedes love supporting fellow Swedes, and Gateway’s community is no different. Interaction with other talented, innovative members offers an additional value not stated in the list of membership amenities.
When filling out an application for the platform, the last question potential members are expected to answer reads, “Gateway is a professional community of sharing and cocreation. What do you expect your primary contribution to be? How in turn might you contribute back?”
If you weren’t sold already, you should be.
Applications are being accepted for the 2019 calendar year. Space is limited and considered on a first-come, first-served basis upon membership approval. Want to learn more or set up a tour of the space? Email gateway@saccny.org.
