During this session we will explore partnership between Coppin State University and Open Works. This union marks a significant milestone—the inaugural formal connection between a public Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and a community-rooted makerspace on a national scale.
The Greater Baltimore Committee's (GBC) 2017 Bridging the Gap Award recognized the profound impact of this strategic partnership. Through initiatives like the report "Turning Makerspaces into Greater Places," which played a pivotal role in securing public funds for makerspace expansion, to the rapid response research showcasing Open Works' production of 28,000 PPE face shields during the pandemic, this partnership has consistently pushed boundaries.
As an attendee, you'll gain insights into the symbiotic relationship between entrepreneurship and local manufacturing, unpack the strategic significance of makerspaces as economic catalysts and resilient supply chain enforcers, and delve into the essence of inclusive, transregional economic networks that foster economic community-building. Join us to explore the collaborative innovations that are shaping the trajectory of not only Baltimore's but also the nation's economic future.