Owners: Gretchen Bilbro
Business: Cultivate Coworking
Opened since: 2015
What inspired you to open your own business?
Seeing my husband work from home and struggle with the challenges associated with being isolated and frequently distracted (mainly by me and our three kids) I knew there was a need for a professional alternative to working in coffee shops or from home. Sometimes you just need to get out of the house and be around people. Coworking offers a great place to meet clients and network with other members.
What makes Murfreesboro business special?
Murfreesboro is a special community because we are full of unique businesses that you can’t find anywhere else.
Describe your business in a few words.
We offer flex desks, private offices, high-speed internet, Just Love coffee, snacks, meeting rooms, business mailing address, print/copy/scan, a classroom in a welcoming, professional atmosphere. We are a place where you can get your work done efficiently and without distractions.
Who are your customers?
My customers are business professionals working in many different fields. They range from lawyers with offices on the Square who want to meet associates for coffee in a quiet setting to nonprofits and entrepreneurs just starting out. Anyone that works remotely, needs a place to meet clients, needs a business mailing address and wants to meet people can use our space and benefit from being in a welcoming, professional coworking environment.
How do you define success in your business?
It is a successful day at Cultivate when two members meet for the first time and end up working together on a project. Those serendipitous interactions are what I hope for every day.
What are your current and upcoming goals for your business?
Our current goals at Cultivate are to grow our memberships and introduce more people to the positive aspects of coworking. We hope to provide a community space for professionals where they feel welcomed and can grow their businesses.
Besides your own, what is your favorite local business?
The Bangkok Thai Cuisine on Robert Rose Drive. My husband and I have been enjoying their food since they were located on the downtown Square 20 years ago. We even ate there after our wedding with our friends and family. We have watched the owners’ children grow up and always feel like we are eating with family when go there.
What advice would you give someone looking to open a business in Murfreesboro?
Find a group of people to support you and ask for advice. It is important to surround yourself with people that support your work and journey. It is not an easy task to go out on your own and start something from scratch. Finding a good support network is key.
Contact Cultivate Comworking
Address: 107 W. Lytle St. Murfreesboro
Website: cultivatecoworking.com, Facebook
Email/Phone: info@cultivatecoworking.com | 615-203-6084
