StartSpace

StartSpace is an innovative coworking space and community located within State Library Victoria in Melbourne, Australia, dedicated to supporting new and early-stage business founders. It was launched in March 2020 as a key initiative of the Library's Vision 2020 redevelopment, with philanthropic backing from prominent Melbourne businesswoman Christine Christian, who also serves as the Library Board President. The organisation’s core mission is to bridge a critical gap in Victoria's startup ecosystem by providing knowledge, resources, and networks to aspiring entrepreneurs, irrespective of their industry, background, age, or experience.

What truly sets StartSpace apart is its inclusive, not-for-profit model, powered by State Library Victoria and enabled by the Christine Christian Foundation. This unique structure allows it to offer two tiers of membership: a free option providing access to a vibrant ground-floor coworking area, basic facilities, and a comprehensive program of workshops, training, mentor sessions, and networking events. For those further along their entrepreneurial journey, the StartSpace Loft offers a premium, paid membership with exclusive access to a dedicated mezzanine coworking space, enhanced facilities, and extended hours. StartSpace caters specifically to Victorian residents aged 18 and over who are developing lawful, early-stage business or startup ideas.

Under the leadership of individuals such as StartSpace Lead Xue Huang and Community Lead Aun Ngo, the organisation has cultivated an environment conducive to transforming business concepts into reality. Key achievements in its initial five years include rapidly building a thriving community, reaching 2,000 members by January 2025. During this period, StartSpace facilitated 387 learning and networking sessions and supported 49 early-stage founders through dedicated mentoring, development, and scholarship programs, distributing over $250,000 in seed funding. Notable success stories amongst its members include Ruwini Cooray, founder of Neurogen, and Zoe Burrows, co-director of Crazy Ideas College, both of whom have achieved significant growth and recognition within the StartSpace community.

StartSpace continues to be an integral part of Melbourne's dynamic startup landscape, fostering innovation and economic growth across Victoria. Its commitment to diversity is evident in its membership, which includes notable proportions of individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and those who identify as female or non-binary. The organisation's range of programs, including the StartSpace Challenge and Lisa Ring and Family Scholarships, underscore its dedication to providing holistic support for founders at every stage of their early business journey.

Located in the Ideas Quarter inside the State Library Victoria, StartSpace offers state-of-the-art facilities in a central Melbourne location. The design by Architectus and Schmidt Hammer Lassen provides varied working and collaboration areas, fostering an inclusive atmosphere. StartSpace prides itself on enabling founders to turn ideas into sustainable businesses, reflecting the Library's enduring legacy of making knowledge accessible to all Victorians.