A group of self-employed locals are currently gathering to help create a co-working space right here in Nelson and they're actively seeking others who are interested.

The potential benefits of co-working are numerous, like increased social interaction, shared energy, inspiration and motivation, and daily structure. Plus, it’s a great way to network, creating new business opportunities through discovering varied skill sets among peers.

“I love the freedoms of being self-employed, but over time I've come to miss aspects of working in an office,” said video game developer and Nelson Co-working committee member, Eddy Boxerman. “The friendships, the

sharing of ideas, and rubbing shoulders with interesting people.”

Co-working spaces have been rapidly developing over the last 10 years in many cities around the world. As more workers — whether they are freelancers, telecommuters, or entrepreneurs — find themselves in non-traditional work arrangements, the demand for co-working space will continue to increase.

According to a 2010 Kelly Services Inc., survey of 15,000 Canadians, one in every five consider themselves “self-employed,” and more than 50 per cent of

those surveyed expressed a desire to work independently.

To find out when and where the group is meeting next, join the Nelson Independent Workers Collective Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/260360240712143/. Also visit www.nelsoncowork.com to take a short survey about Nelson co-working needs.