=Space | equalspace

As 2024 draws to a close, we at EqualSpace are taking a moment to celebrate the milestones, growth, and impact we’ve achieved together. This year has been a transformative one, filled with opportunities to foster innovation, empower underrepresented founders, and build meaningful connections within our community.

In our 2024 End-of-Year Report, we’re proud to highlight some of the standout moments, including:

Our commitment to fostering diversity, inclusivity, and economic growth remains at the core of everything we do. We’re dedicated to ensuring that equal access to resources and opportunity is available to all, especially those from underrepresented communities.

We’re incredibly grateful to our funders, partners, and the entire EqualSpace community for making this year a success. As we look ahead to 2025, we’re excited to continue expanding our impact, creating new opportunities, and building a brighter future for entrepreneurs in Newark and beyond.

Read the full report and celebrate the highlights of this year’s journey with us! Download here

Ok SPACE(r)s, truth be told, I wasn’t the strongest fundraiser when we launched EqualSpace. In fact, I probably made more mistakes than I can count. I invested my own money first, pitched to every company, funder, and foundation out there, often wildly and without focus. And the biggest mistake? I never came right out and asked for what I needed as a founder—whether it was investment, sponsorship, support, or even just for them to advocate for me!

As much as we stress the reality of the funding gap, I’ve realized that EqualSpace and my journey are also answering to the knowledge gap. In short, y’all, I was a B.A.D fundraiser! So here’s how you can increase your chances of gaining funding by defining B.A.D. in my own approach.

Finding Inner Space: A Guide for BIPOC Founders

Hey, Citi Medina here, founder of Equalspace. Today, I want to delve into something close to my heart: the critical importance of nurturing our inner selves as BiPOC founders. Building a successful startup isn’t just about the external hustle—it’s equally about fostering a strong, centered inner space that allows us to navigate and overcome the unique obstacles we face.

Daily Mental Health Practices
First off, let’s talk mental health. As founders, our minds are our greatest assets and sometimes our toughest adversaries. Daily mental health exercises and therapy sessions are not luxuries but necessities. They help us manage stress, enhance focus, and maintain emotional resilience. According to the Harvard Business Review, prioritizing mental well-being leads to better decision-making and overall business success (Source: [HBR]).

Physical Well-being: Yoga, Exercise, and Nature
Physical practices like yoga, weightlifting, or simply taking outdoor walks are invaluable. They not only keep us physically fit but also contribute to mental clarity and creativity. Research published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine confirms that regular exercise reduces stress levels and enhances cognitive function (Source: [JOEM]).

Building a Balanced Inner Circle
Another crucial aspect is surrounding ourselves with a balanced and steadfast inner circle of advisors. These are the folks who provide sage counsel, challenge our assumptions, and offer unwavering support. As highlighted in Entrepreneur, diverse perspectives within our advisory network foster innovation and strategic growth (Source: [Entrepreneur])

Setting Boundaries and Disconnecting
Lastly, let’s discuss boundaries and disconnecting—a form of self-preservation. Even as founders, we can inadvertently create toxic environments if we neglect our own well-being. Setting clear boundaries and knowing when to disconnect allows us to recharge and maintain healthy work-life integration.

At Equalspace, we embody these principles. Our campuses, like ES89 and ES550, aren’t just physical spaces—they’re sanctuaries where diversity, innovation, and well-being converge. I invite all BiPOC founders to join us in fostering a culture where inner strength is as valued as external success. Together, let’s fearlessly navigate the entrepreneurial journey and build a future where everyone thrives.

Here’s to finding and nurturing our inner strength,
Citi Medina

How to Create a Culture of Belonging

Creating a culture of belonging is necessary for BIPOC and Queer leaders. Through nine years of leading my equity space, EqualSpace, my team and I have gained insights into the critical needs of diverse founders and the specific, often obstructive journeys they travel. These experiences inform the culture needed for them to grow and thrive.

As I reflect on Pride and its origins, I think of the struggle of Queer people to exist authentically. For many of us, EqualSpace represents the safe space we have always craved. LGBTQIA+ individuals often face the challenge of coming out repeatedly, shedding layers of falsehood. This process is deeply tied to feeling safe, yet many of us come out despite not feeling safe, embodying radical and unapologetic authenticity.

This journey varies for different people, but the critical need for safety and belonging remains the same. EqualSpace is my love letter to the intersectional experiences of multicultural people. It affirms their worth in a world that often tells them they are not enough. My co-founder and I created EqualSpace in response to the pain points and obstacles we faced, from lack of investment common among BiPOC founders to feeling othered at events.

In creating a more intentional sense of belonging, we focus on intersectionality and addressing the impact of othering. Let’s explore some definitions:

Othering

“Othering” refers to perceiving or portraying someone or a group as fundamentally different or alien, often marginalizing or dehumanizing them. Renowned sociologist Stuart Hall explains: “The concept of ‘the Other’ is central to understanding how we construct and maintain our identities by distinguishing ourselves from those we view as different. This process often involves stereotypical representations that diminish the humanity of the ‘Other’ and reinforce existing power imbalances.”

Belonging

Belonging is the inner process of feeling seen, heard, felt, and understood. It refers to the human emotional need to be an accepted member of a group, whether it be family, friends, coworkers, or a community. Renowned social scientist Brené Brown says: “True belonging doesn’t require you to change who you are; it requires you to be who you are.”

To create a space where our community and guests feel a sense of belonging, we focus on multiple touchpoints:

POC and queer founders often feel unseen. At EqualSpace, we ensure our community and guests feel seen through diverse artwork, decor, music, and products that reflect their identities.

We use a 1/3 rule during engagements: 1/3 of the time sharing our story, mission, and amenities, and 2/3 of the time understanding the journey, goals, and dreams of our members. This approach ensures they feel heard, responded to, and empowered.

We actively engage members through regular acknowledgment of achievements, whether small or large. This includes newsletter highlights, monthly one-on-one meetings, social media shout-outs, and personal greetings.

Encouraging a member or SPACE(r) to feel valued involves creating an inclusive environment, recognizing individual contributions, and fostering active participation. These strategies build a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and felt.

At EqualSpace, we affirm our members from the moment they step in. We greet them, ask for their pronouns, and respect their identities. Our space features diverse visual affirmations, from hanging plants and mud cloth fabrics to art by Queer, brown, and Black artists. The air is scented with Kanea Candles, poured with love by Akosua Ayim, a fantastic African woman founder. At our coffee bar, we serve Black Swan Espresso, a local Black-owned roaster.

Every detail at EqualSpace is intentional. It is healing to see members shed the weight they carry, if only for a moment, and truly belong.

References

In a monumental move towards fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Newark, Equal Space has proudly announced the acquisition of a $625,000 grant from the City of Newark and Invest Newark through the Newark Retail Reactivation Grant. This substantial grant marks a significant stride forward for Equal Space as it establishes a cutting-edge tech and innovation campus at 550 Broad Street, Newark.

This grant, administered through the Newark Retail Reactivation Initiative, is a testament to the city’s commitment to nurturing business growth and revitalizing downtown Newark. Mayor Ras J. Baraka, alongside Invest Newark, the city’s leading economic development corporation, unveiled this initiative to empower businesses and not-for-profit organizations to expand their presence in Newark’s downtown core. The initiative seeks to enhance downtown’s retail, cultural, and culinary landscape while simultaneously enhancing safety, aesthetics, and overall quality of life for Newark residents, workers, and students.

Equal Space’s utilization of this grant will materialize in creating ES550, a dynamic 50,000-square-foot tech and innovation campus. Located at 550 Broad Street, this state-of-the-art facility will encompass three floors of office spaces, multimedia studios, podcast studios, a 300-person event space, and headquarters tailored for more prominent startups. With a focus on inclusivity and community-building, Equal Space aims to cater to solopreneurs and teams of up to 24 individuals, providing a nurturing environment for businesses at every stage of their growth journey.

“Our vision for the tech and innovation campus is to cultivate positive and inclusive spaces where tech enthusiasts and innovators can thrive and make lasting contributions to Newark,” says Medina, CEO and Co-founder of Equal Space. “We are committed to ensuring that businesses not only come to Newark but also choose to stay and grow within the city. Newark has the potential to nurture startups from their inception to becoming established businesses, and we want to be instrumental in facilitating that journey.”

Beyond fostering business growth, the tech and innovation campus is poised to generate new job opportunities and serve as a catalyst for economic development in Newark. The vision outlined by Mayor Ras J. Baraka underscores the significance of initiatives like the Newark Retail Reactivation Initiative in propelling downtown Newark toward becoming a vibrant, 24/7 hub for innovation, commerce, and community engagement.

Mayor Baraka expressed his enthusiasm for the Newark Retail Reactivation Initiative, emphasizing its potential to invigorate downtown Newark and attract diverse entrepreneurs and small retail businesses. “This program will make downtown even more attractive as a destination—a place for residents and visitors to enjoy,” Mayor Baraka remarked. “It is an important step in our strategy to make downtown a 24/7, exciting, walkable area where people can live, work, and play.”

As Equal Space embarks on this transformative journey, fueled by the support of the City of Newark and Invest Newark, the stage is set for a new era of innovation and growth in Newark’s downtown landscape. Through initiatives like the Newark Retail Reactivation Initiative, Newark is poised to emerge as a beacon of opportunity and progress, offering a fertile ground for businesses to flourish and communities to thrive.

Join us for an exhilarating day at our vibrant sharespace space, where creativity knows no bounds and collaboration thrives. Experience the freedom to work from our inspiring environment, designed to fuel your passion and amplify your productivity. Best of all, it’s all on us for the day!

Whether you’re looking to brainstorm, collaborate, or simply get some work done, our spaces are designed to inspire and empower you. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity! Bring your ideas, your passion, and your drive. We can’t wait to see you there.

We also will be hosting Chika Ogele, an associate from Newark Venture Partners You can schedule a meeting with them here: https://bit.ly/24VCJan

Join us for an unforgettable night of music, dance, and culinary delights at Newark Levels: The Muses of Brick City! This multi-floor extravaganza will take you on a vibrant journey through Newark’s dynamic cultural landscape, featuring incredible local talent and amazing vendors across three unique floors.

Get your tickets now and be part of the magic! This is going to be a night to remember. 🌟

THE PERFORMERS

Gail Campbell

Prepare to be mesmerized by Afro Rock Neo-Alternative singer Gail Campbell. Her powerful performance will ignite your spirit and set the stage for an epic night.

Newark, NJ native Gail Renee Campbell has two groundbreaking albums: Bloody Waters and Let My People Go. Her music, a blend of jazz, rock-n-roll, blues, hip-hop, and dance, is paired with a deeply soulful voice likened to Tina Turner, Janis Joplin, Aretha Franklin, and Ella Fitzgerald. With a retro style and personal lyrics, Campbell stands out as a unique artist. Both albums, produced by Stanley Ipkiss, are celebrated for their innovation, with Bloody Waters winning the 2020 Heritage HipHop Album of the Year Award. In January 2024, she signed with Rockboy Records, co-founded by Fly Ty and platinum producer D/R Period. Under this label, Campbell is poised to take the world by storm.

Yeimy

Immerse yourself in the sweet melodies of Latin-Indie performer Yeimy. Her soulful tunes will transport you to a world of musical bliss.

Yeimy Gamez Castillo is a multidisciplinary storyteller, raised and based in the unceded lands of the Lenni-Lenape, in present-day Newark, NJ. She is a singer/songwriter, community organizer, poet, and music producer. Her queer and city-bound immigrant upbringing inspires her sonic and literary practices. Mixing and delving into her musical inspirations, from Cumbia, Bolero, Soul, and Rancheras to Acoustic Folk, Indie Rock, and Jazz, she employs a captivating multi-genre approach and lyrical finesse. Through this, she translates and transports listeners into her imagined worlds. Yeimy’s work has been seen and featured in the New York Times, BBC Radio 1 News, and Many other outlets.

The House of Old Navy

The House of Old Navy will snatch yo’ lace frontal with their killer voguing styles. This iconic crew is turning it out and serving with fierce energy and flawless style.

The Kiki House of Old Navy, founded in 2008, is a vibrant force with chapters spanning from sunny Florida to chilly Canada. For those not in the know, kiki houses sprouted from fabulous social gatherings at LGBTQ+ health organizations. These events and houses, initially meant for socializing evolved into their own dazzling ballroom subculture. Now, the kiki scene is a glittering training ground for young ballroom talent, offering fierce competition and leadership opportunities. So, darling, when you hear about the House of Old Navy, think bold, beautiful, and ever-so-CxNTY!

THE VENDORS

This event is a part of the Prudential Presents North to Shore Festival. This event was made possible through the North to Shore Festival Presented by Prudential.

Equal Space is thrilled to announce that we have been selected as one of the recipients of the NJEDA GrantBoard’s prestigious grant, totaling $25.1 million, dedicated to Real Estate Rehabilitation and Development. This grant falls under the Activation, Revitalization, and Transformation (A.R.T.) Program, and it is with great humility and honor that we accept this recognition.

The grant allocates $2 million to Equal Space, which will be instrumental in the renovation of multiple floors at our new 550 Broad Street location. This funding marks a significant milestone in our journey as we continue to redefine the possibilities of workspace environments.

Equal Space is more than just a coworking space; it’s a mission-driven organization committed to fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our goal is to provide entrepreneurs, startups, and businesses with a dynamic ecosystem where they can thrive. With cutting-edge coworking spaces, state-of-the-art amenities, and a vibrant community, Equal Space offers an unparalleled experience for professionals seeking to elevate their professional journey.

At Equal Space, we take pride in our dedication to creating an equitable space that contributes to the innovation ecosystem of Newark. Our new tech and innovation campus, ES550, spans an impressive 50,000 square feet, offering suites, offices, and multi-room headquarters suitable for startups of all scales and across all verticals. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or a growing team, our facilities can accommodate your needs.

The amenities at ES550 are designed to support the diverse needs of our community. From a 300-person event space to podcast and media studios, green rooms, and more, our campus provides the infrastructure necessary for success. We believe that providing access to these resources is essential for empowering entrepreneurs and driving economic growth in our community.

As we embark on this next phase of development, we invite you to join us at Equal Space and discover a workspace that not only meets but exceeds your expectations. Whether you’re looking for a place to launch your startup, expand your business, or connect with like-minded professionals, Equal Space is here to support you every step of the way.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the NJEDA Grant Board for their support and investment in our vision. With this grant, we are confident that Equal Space will continue to serve as a catalyst for innovation and entrepreneurship in Newark and beyond. Join us as we shape the future of work and redefine what’s possible in the modern workspace.

In today’s dynamic business environment, where change is constant and competition is fierce, leadership teams are faced with the critical task of steering their organizations toward success. To navigate these challenges effectively, they must rely on data-driven decision-making.

In this article, we will delve into how leadership teams can derive smart decisions from a good data set and the ways in which they can benefit from them.

Understanding the Role of Quality Data

Defining Quality Data

Before delving into the benefits, it’s crucial to define what quality data is. Quality data refers to accurate, reliable, and relevant information that is collected and processed systematically. It is free from errors, inconsistencies, and biases, making it a trustworthy foundation for decision-making.

The Importance of Data in Decision-Making

Quality data is the lifeblood of informed decision-making. Leadership teams rely on data to gain insights into market trends, customer behavior, and internal operations. It allows them to identify opportunities, mitigate risks, and steer the organization in the right direction.

Leveraging Data for Competitive Advantage

Identifying Market Trends

In today’s hyper-competitive business environment, staying ahead of market trends is essential. Quality data allows leadership teams to track industry shifts, consumer behavior, and emerging technologies. Armed with this knowledge, they can adapt their strategies to gain a competitive edge.

Customer-Centric Decision-Making

Understanding customer preferences is crucial for any business. Quality data enables leaders to gain deep insights into customer behavior, preferences, and feedback. This information empowers them to tailor products, services, and marketing efforts to meet customer needs effectively.

Expanding Market Reach

Quality data enables leaders to identify new market segments and opportunities for expansion. By analyzing demographic and market data, leadership teams can tailor their products and services to resonate with different customer groups.

Mitigating Risks and Challenges

Enhanced Forecasting

Accurate data is essential for effective forecasting. Leadership teams can use quality data to make more precise revenue, sales, and demand forecasts. This helps in managing inventory, resources, and staffing levels efficiently.

Proactive Problem Solving

Challenges and risks are inevitable in business. However, quality data equips leadership teams to anticipate potential issues and address them proactively. By analyzing historical data and identifying patterns, they can develop contingency plans and minimize the impact of unexpected events.

Compliance and Regulations

Compliance is a must in a world where companies are becoming more and more regulated. Quality data ensures that an organization adheres to legal and industry-specific regulations. Leadership teams can use data to monitor compliance, identify areas for improvement, and prevent costly violations.

Better Financial Management

Accurate financial data is crucial for sound financial management. Leadership teams can use quality data to monitor expenses, track revenue, and make informed budgeting decisions, ultimately leading to better financial health for the organization.

Enhancing Team Collaboration

Data-Driven Discussions

Quality data serves as a common language within leadership teams. It facilitates productive discussions and debates based on facts rather than opinions. This fosters a culture of collaboration and ensures that decisions align with the organization’s objectives.

Transparent Reporting

Transparency is essential for building trust within an organization. Quality data allows leadership teams to provide transparent reports to stakeholders, shareholders, and employees. This openness enhances credibility and demonstrates a commitment to accountability.

Improved Employee Productivity

When leadership teams have access to accurate data, they can make more informed decisions about resource allocation and employee management. This can lead to increased employee productivity, as teams have the necessary tools and support to excel in their roles.

Creating Stronger Connections

Improved Customer Service

Quality data allows organizations to provide better customer service. With access to comprehensive customer profiles and historical data, leadership teams can empower their customer service teams to resolve issues more effectively and provide personalized support.

Increased Customer Retention

Quality data can help leaders identify at-risk customers and implement strategies to retain them. By analyzing customer data and behavior, leadership teams can develop targeted retention campaigns and personalized experiences, increasing customer loyalty.

Enhanced Supplier Relationships

For businesses that rely on suppliers, quality data can improve supplier relationships. Leadership teams can use data to assess supplier performance, negotiate better terms, and ensure a consistent supply chain.

Strategic Partnerships

For businesses looking to form strategic partnerships, quality data can be a valuable asset. Leadership teams can use data to identify potential partners, assess their suitability, and negotiate mutually beneficial agreements.

Encouraging Creativity

Data-Backed Marketing Strategies

Marketing efforts are more effective when based on quality data. Leadership teams can use data to create targeted marketing campaigns, allocate advertising budgets wisely, and measure the ROI of marketing initiatives.

Improved Innovation

Quality data can also fuel innovation within an organization. By analyzing market trends and consumer feedback, leadership teams can identify opportunities for product or service enhancements and stay ahead of the curve in terms of innovation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, quality data is the backbone of effective decision-making for leadership teams. It empowers organizations to stay ahead in today’s dynamic business environment.

By collecting, analyzing, and visualizing data, leaders can enhance customer experiences, optimize operations, and gain a competitive edge.
For more insightful articles about leadership, check out EqualSpace’s Blog!

In the heart of our journey at @EqualSpaceCo lies a celebration—a jubilation of innovation, dedication, and a spirit deeply entrenched in community values. As we stand at the threshold of a new chapter, our Co-founder @Medina invites you to join us in revisiting the inspiring narrative that encapsulates our evolution. This is more than a blog; it’s a chronicle of dreams turning into reality, a testimony to the transformative power of hard work, and a commitment to prioritizing community needs.

The Governor’s Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Award:
The pinnacle of our recent achievements is the honor bestowed upon us—the Governor’s Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Award. This recognition is not merely a feather in our cap; it is a profound affirmation of our team’s unwavering dedication to placing the community at the forefront of our mission. It speaks to the resilience born out of hard work, the transformative potential of dreams, and our steadfast commitment to uplifting the very community we serve.

=SPACE: A Sanctuary for Innovation:
For over 8 years, =SPACE has been more than just a physical space—it’s a sanctuary. A safe haven meticulously crafted for entrepreneurs, creatives, techies, and innovators to thrive. Unlike traditional coworking spaces, =SPACE is not about filling seats; it’s about fostering success and creating an environment where each individual feels seen, heard, and empowered.

A ‘Sharespace,’ Not Just a Workspace:
What sets =SPACE apart is our ethos of being a ‘sharespace.’ It goes beyond the conventional concept of a coworking space, embodying a community where success is celebrated collectively, and challenges are faced together. In a world where ‘no’ is often the prevailing response, =SPACE stands as a resounding ‘yes,’ ensuring that no one has to navigate their journey alone.

Uplifting Through Struggles:
Our commitment extends beyond the celebration of success—it involves uplifting those navigating through challenges. =SPACE stands by the side of brilliant minds, offering support and encouragement as they carve paths in industries less explored. It’s a testament to our belief that true success lies in collective growth and shared experiences.

A Heartfelt Thank You:
As we reflect on this incredible milestone, we extend our deepest gratitude to Governor Leslie Anderson and NJRA for their unwavering support. Their belief in our vision propels us forward, and we are eager to continue making a positive impact on the community we cherish.

This blog post is not just a reflection; it’s an invitation to join us in celebrating a decade of innovation, dedication, and community building. As we navigate through this journey, we invite you to be inspired and consider how you, too, can make a positive impact on your own path. Thank you for being a part of our story! 🚀 #EqualSpaceCo #CommunityFirst #InnovationJourney

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.

Home Campus 89 Campus 550 Press Contact

Finding Inner Space: A Guide for BIPOC Founders

Here’s to finding and nurturing our inner strength,Citi Medina

How to Create a Culture of Belonging

Othering

Belonging

References