Situated in the bustling center of Newark, New Jersey, EqualSpace offers a one-of-a-kind workspace that transcends the ordinary. More than just a workspace, EqualSpace is a vibrant community, a testament to the strength of diversity, and a catalyst for innovation. It serves as a launchpad for dreams, a hub for collaboration, and a crucible for innovation. Our core values of equality, teamwork, and creativity permeate every aspect of our space. As EqualSpace continues to evolve, we remain dedicated to creating collaborative environments that empower entrepreneurs and creatives alike. Together, we forge ahead with courage, curiosity, and an unwavering commitment to unlocking the full potential of all.
1. All Voices : Inclusivity at the Core At EqualSpace, diversity fuels innovation, fostering an inclusive environment where every voice matters. Our vibrant community unites dreamers and creators, driving collaborative progress and lasting impact.
2. Elevating Dreams: Innovation Beyond Boundaries EqualSpace empowers dreamers to redefine possibilities, pioneering innovation in Newark’s vibrant landscape. As a launchpad for success, we welcome all striving to make a positive impact, whether startups, nonprofits, or creative ventures.
3. Community as Cornerstone: Impact that Resonates EqualSpace fosters a thriving community beyond conventional co-working, where support and success go hand in hand. As Newark’s innovation core, we catalyze transformative influence, inviting all to join us in shaping an inclusive, innovative future.
EqualSpace stands as a testament to the resilience and vision of its founders, Medina and Ralphie. Born out of the challenges encountered as entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, EqualSpace emerged as the solution they envisioned during the creation of their inaugural venture, MedinaCiti. Serving as a sanctuary—a culturally celebratory campus fostering community while unapologetically affirming and celebrating cultural identities—EqualSpace offers a refreshing respite in a world often consumed by negativity. Driven by a commitment to inclusivity, Medina and Ralphie continually expand access and provide resources within their shared space. Here, opportunity abounds.
ES89 CAMPUS
Situated in the heart of downtown Newark within the Max Blau Building, our Social Justice and Creative campus stands as a vibrant hub where startups dedicated to addressing social justice issues intersect with content creators, bolstering the city’s creative economy. Spanning an expansive 19,000 square feet, our facility boasts content suites, versatile meeting spaces, convening rooms, and dedicated workspaces, providing our SPACE(r)s with an optimal environment to drive tangible impact and propel their initiatives forward. More than just a physical space, ES89 serves as the pulsating core of the EqualSpace brand, nurturing collaboration, innovation, and positive change.
ES550 CAMPUS
EqualSpace’s Tech and Innovation Campus is a thriving hub designed to cater to startups of all sizes and across various industries. Spanning an impressive 50,000 square feet, our campus offers a diverse range of suites, offices, and multi-room headquarters tailored to meet the unique needs of every company and team. Our state-of-the-art amenities include a spacious 300-person event space, cutting-edge podcast and media studios, well-equipped green rooms, and an array of convening rooms ideal for hosting a wide range of gatherings and meetings. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or an established business seeking the perfect headquarters, EqualSpace provides the ideal environment to foster innovation, collaboration, and success.
OUR TEAM
A team tailored for your success, our diverse members bring a wealth of expertise and perspectives to the forefront. From experienced entrepreneurs to passionate tech enthusiasts, each individual contributes their distinct talents and insights, empowering us to navigate New York’s dynamic tech innovation scene with flexibility and creativity.
Co-founder & CEO
Citi Medina (He/Him)
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Co-founder & COO
Ralphie Roman (He/Him)
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Operations Manager
Jonathan Collins (He/Him)
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Community & Programming Manager
Kelly Outing (They/Them)
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Community Engagement Coordinator
Angie Albizu (She/Her)
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Lead Graphic Designer
Mark Oliveira (He/Him)
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Co-founder & CEO
Citi Medina (He/Him)
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Co-founder & COO
Ralphie Roman (He/Him)
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Operations Manager
Jonathan Collins (He/Him)
Read Bio ▶
Community & Programming Manager
Kelly Outing (They/Them)
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Community Engagement Coordinator
Angie Albizu (She/Her)
Read Bio ▶
Lead Graphic Designer
Mark Oliveira (He/Him)
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OUR CREATIVES
The Rorshach Collective
RORSHACH, comprised of brothers Andre León and Robert Ramone, originates from Newark, New Jersey, a city known for its gritty yet captivating essence. Raised in immigrant Latino families amidst the challenges of inner-city life, their upbringing forged a deep connection transcending mere blood ties. Despite differing interests – Andre’s passion for fine art contrasting with Robert’s involvement in graffiti – their paths converged, birthing a unique artistic synergy reminiscent of Voltron. Combining efforts, they developed a distinctive style blending fine art and graffiti seamlessly. Today, their focus centers on capturing the essence of their environment – a blend of chaos and beauty, oppression and freedom, inspiring boundless creativity. Characterizing their work defies simple classification, often described as a fusion of narrative figurative realism and abstract expressionist graffiti.
OUR CREATIVES
Tanisha Best
Tanisha Best, an artist based in Newark, draws inspiration from an unexpected encounter in 2011 while exploring Harlem. Captivated by an image reflected in a puddle, she conceived her notable series, 'Puddles,' encouraging viewers to see their surroundings from new perspectives. Despite lacking formal swimming skills, Best's deep connection with water drives her exploration of city pools, transforming ordinary puddles into captivating urban landscapes. Evolving alongside environmental changes, Best now focuses on capturing Newark's essence, offering fresh perspectives on its dynamic character. Beyond art, Best empowers female creators, celebrating their resilience and creativity as transformative forces. Inspired by remarkable women in her life, she pays forward daily inspiration, contributing to a narrative of strength and empowerment in the artistic community and beyond.
OUR CREATIVES
David Oquendo
David D. Oquendo, a New Jersey-based artist originally from San Juan, Puerto Rico, explores identity and language in his work. Mentored by Denyse Thomasos, Oquendo earned his BFA in Painting and a Minor in Art History from Rutgers University in 2009, and an MFA in Painting from Montclair State University in 2012. His art has been shown across New Jersey, New York, Florida, and the UK, with solo exhibitions at Solo(s) Project House in Newark, NJ, the Henao Contemporary Center in Orlando, FL, and Equal Space in Newark, NJ. He enriches urban spaces through murals in New Jersey and New York. As an educator, he has worked with The Robeson Galleries at Rutgers University and leads the Visual Arts Department at Bard Early College in Newark. His 'Metaphrase' writing system, seen in wall renderings, paintings, and sculptures, explores his childhood struggle with language, revealing complexities in communication and self-expression.
OUR CREATIVES
Rafael Cuello
Rafael Cuello, a seasoned Visual Artist, Curator, and Digital Design Virtuoso, brings over two decades of experience in the visual arts. Originally from Providence, RI, he now resides in Newark, New Jersey. With expertise in print design, illustration, photography, and community engagement through art curation, Cuello is recognized for his sleek and stylish design aesthetic. His extensive portfolio covers diverse subjects, including Arts & Entertainment, Social Justice issues, LGBTQ+ Experience/Lifestyle, and Public Health and Community Development. Committed to using art for community revitalization, Rafael co-founded Artfront Galleries, a New Jersey non-profit, in 2013, where he serves as Co-Founder and Secretary. Artfront Galleries promotes temporary art galleries as transformative social and educational tools in urban settings, reflecting Rafael's dedication to using art for positive change.
A premium sharespace created with multicultural business owners in mind, =SPACE provides resources for startups, coaching for tech companies, and access to minority business owners. We believe that access + resources = SPACE & Opportunities.
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