Major coworking space for social innovation launches at Springdale General

When we last checked in with Springdale General, the multi-use complex being built at the corner of Springdale and Airport, it was already known that the Center for Social Innovation (CSI) would occupy an impressive space at the back of the complex.

Tucked among live oaks a bit away from the rest of the compound—a collection of interaction-inspiring working spaces, small fabrication studios, and other enterprises designed by by Michael Hsu Office of Architecture—the center will feature 10,000 square feet of working space, with a mix of private studios, dedicated desks, conference spaces, lounge areas, and an additional 5,048 square feet of meeting space. It also has ample outside patios and other gathering areas that include the only heritage trees that were on the property, which gives it a nice, copse-like feel.

The latest news on that front is that high-profile, Austin-based startup accelerator Capital Factory has partnered with Notley, the local venture capital fund behind the center, which a press release describes as “an integrated campus for socially innovative nonprofits and purpose-for-profit enterprises ... that serves individuals and startup organizations committed to driving impactful outcomes.”

Notley envisions the Springdale buildings as “a space for people inciting action around social causes to connect with nonprofits, educational systems and entrepreneurial programs ... to drive scalable and sustainable purpose-driven ventures,” according to the statement. Capital Factory will bring years of experience and foundational heft to the coworking operation, with its community of mentors forming part of the support network for its members.

CSI is still under construction, but it already counts Black Fret, Half Helen Foundation, MU/DAI, and The David Weekley Family Foundation as tenants and is taking applications for more.