New co-working space for entrepreneurs and small businesses opens in downtown Pontiac

There's a new co-working space opening in downtown Pontiac, and it's hoping to gather like-minded people and grow a community of entrepreneurs and start-ups.

It's called Pontiac Tribe, and the co-working space is celebrating its grand opening with an open house on Thursday, Feb. 8, from 5 to 7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

Ben Carr is looking to jump-start downtown Pontiac's start-up scene. One of the things the community was lacking, he says, was a co-working space that offered desks, conference space, and a collaborative environment. While co-working is a trend that has taken off in downtown Detroit, Carr believes that Pontiac is uniquely situated to become a start-up destination in its own right.

The city is not only located in the center of Oakland County, but its centrally located within the region itself. Carr contends that leaving from Pontiac, he can meet clients in either downtown Detroit, Ann Arbor, or Port Huron, and all within 45 minutes. And towns like Flint aren't that far away.

"Hopefully this opening will attract people that want to be in Pontiac," says Carr. "This is dedicated office space that's affordable, and without driving all the way to Detroit."

Pontiac Tribe occupies 1,800 sq. ft. on Saginaw Street, a floor above two street-level breweries, Exferimentation Brewing Co. and Fillmore 13 Brewery, and each with their own kitchens. Desks, private offices, and a dedicated conference room are available to rent on a monthly basis, ranging in prices from $155 per month to $350 per month. Fresh paint and carpet are complemented by modern amenities like wifi Internet service and more.

Carr's own business is among Tribe's tenants. He owns and operates advertising firm Ad Local, and does so out of Pontiac Tribe. He believes that the co-working environment can only help grow his firm.

"I can work from home if I want to. I don't need an office but I wanted to plant my business here and grow it here in Pontiac," says Carr. "There's nothing like Tribe here in Pontiac."

Pontiac Tribe is located at 7 N. Saginaw St. Ste. 300 in downtown Pontiac.

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