Now in their sixth year, Better Space in Clerkenwell has helped local businesses, entrepreneurs and social enterprises develop in the heart of Islington. The innovative partnership between City St George’s, University of London and Islington Council provides affordable workspace, skills development and a thriving community for founders from diverse backgrounds. 

Home to around 120 members from more than 30 businesses, Better Space supports sole traders, social impact organisations and start-ups, with a particular focus on local founders, women, global majority communities and disabled entrepreneurs. Alongside coworking facilities, members can access workshops, networking opportunities, sustainability initiatives, community lunches and expert support from academics and business leaders. 

Since launching, Better Space has delivered more than £1.27 million of social value and has become a recognised example of how universities and councils can work together to strengthen local economies. 

We spoke to Sarah Worth, Partnerships and Social Impact Manager at Better Space, and Filip Hnízdo, Director of Octophin Digital and one of Better Space’s long-standing members.

Building a community, not just a workspace

Sarah says the strength of Better Space comes from the community it has built around local businesses. 

“We’re now in our sixth year and the community has grown into something really special, whether that’s community lunches, sustainability networks, skills workshops or access to academics through City St George’s. We regularly speak to other universities about the model and the difference that backing from both the council and the university has made.” 

She also highlighted the importance of building and retaining talent within Islington. 

“Students are a huge asset to the borough, but we want to help them stay, work and build businesses locally. Shared working spaces like Better Space give people that opportunity. Islington can feel like a borough of two halves, those who live and those who commute here. We’re trying to bridge that gap. We offer free palates and yoga for residents, and provide all manner of business support for those interested in starting their own businesses. We held a social enterprise day with Hugh Mydellton Primary School where the kids worked on projects that mattered to them most, like collecting rubbish, or ensuring everyone has a home.”

Creating opportunities through local connections

For Filip Hnízdo, whose tech company Octophin Digital works across wildlife, arts and heritage projects, Better Space has provided much more than a desk. 

“The community engagement is fantastic. Through Better Space I’ve been involved in employment initiatives, worked with the LIFT programme, spoken at schools and universities, and attended events like the Mayor’s Business Breakfast. A former LIFT intern, James, now works with me! If we’re serious about tackling unemployment among young people, those connections matter. Having truly accessible, affordable spaces is a gamechanger for aspiring young people.” 

Looking ahead

Sarah believes Better Space can forge stronger bonds between businesses and residents.  

“Working hyper-locally has made me more hopeful because you can actually see the difference you’re making on people’s doorsteps, be it work placements, workshops, or mentoring aspiring founders, those actions make waves.” 

Residents interested in starting their own business can find out more at the Start Strong Islington Community Day on 10 September, ahead of the programme running from October to December. Better Space also offers discounted off-peak memberships for Islington residents – visit their website to learn more.  

Upcoming lunch-and-learn: 16th September, Community Organising, Co-production and Regenerative Governance with Abdirahim Hassan