What is an idea without the means or technology to bring it to fruition? Luckily, various locations around the valley are offering access to their technology labs and educational workshops. The best part? They are free of charge!
TechShop is offering complimentary memberships at its Chandler location to ASU students for the fall 2014 semester. Any full-time undergraduate or graduate students, including online students, are eligible for the complimentary memberships. The facility includes $1 million worth of state-of-the-art equipment, including 3-D printers, laser cutters, welding tables, an electronics bench, a woodworking shop and a metal press, as well as computers with design software. In addition, TechShop offers workshops for members to learn to use the equipment. As part of the complimentary membership package, students receive a $100 voucher to cover workshop fees. Sign up here.
Arizona State University is also partnering with LaunchPoint, a free program to train entrepreneurs in a variety of methodologies, to validate business ideas, and to position their companies for funding opportunities. Entrepreneurs who participate in the Business Academy at LaunchPoint will learn from ASU’s Rapid Startup School curriculum. They will also be able to scale their ideas, seek investment and grow their businesses in the East Valley. LaunchPoint will provide each participant with free private office space and furniture, business center access, phone and Internet service, 24/7 facility access, on-site parking and mail services. Learn more here.
Have younger children who are interested in learning about technology? Mesa Code Club is a club held every Monday at the Mesa Public Library for kids aged 8 to 18 to learn computer about coding and its importance in this day and age. This could become much more than just a hobby for kids – it could raise a whole new generation of entrepreneurs! Learn more here.
Gangplank also offers a Mentoring Office Hours program for those who would like to grow a business idea and learn more about getting started. Whatever type of business idea or project, whether it’s a startup or existing small business — at whatever stage of development, they have mentors that can help. Classes vary from WordPress to Design to Accounting. Check out the schedule and RSVP here.
The recently-opened Innovation Hub in Goodyear provides community members the opportunity to connect, collaborate and find valuable resources. Entrepreneurs and small business owners can reserve time in the Innovation Hub meeting room which is outfitted with a whiteboard and internet connectivity. The new library is part of the Alexandria Co-working Network which strives to provide resources to entrepreneurs and small business owners to help foster innovation through collaboration. Learn more here.
Are there any other places in the Valley to learn tech for free? Drop us an email at staff writer at azechbeat.com.
