1700 3rd Avenue
Mankato, MN, 56001
​507-387-7218
mnmakersandartists@gmail.com
Expansion Capital Campaign Ongoing!
Anyone who has been to Mankato Makerspace knows that an incredible wealth of resources is PACKED into 6,000 square feet. To better serve our community, expansion is needed! To increase the quantity and quality of instruction as well as to increase access to membership in the Makerspace, we're fundraising to take over adjacent warehouse space and increase the footprint of our operations.
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Our expansion plan accommodates the significant growth of operations, as well as community needs. We need your help to make expansion a reality. Scroll. to see what we're planning and how you can be a part of our growth!
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Ready to donate? Click donate to make a contribution at our official PayPal page, or contact our fundraising team at tyler@mankatomakerspace.org
Expansion overview of print replication studio and large event space
Makerspace expansion overview of new classroom space for technology, textiles and leather, and a flex-use community meeting and classroom
Makerspace expansion overview of new private studio spaces, gallery, and classroom entrances
Expansion overview of print replication studio and large event space
Expansion Plan
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Improve and lease 5,000 sq ft. of warehouse space directly adjacent to the existing location.
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Create a community, technology, and education ​focused wing in the expansion, separate from noise and dust in the existing shop/ studio space.
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Expand our offerings in numerous art forms & crafts, and enhance our capacity for instruction & community service.
Expansion Features
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Gallery for members
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3 large classrooms (240+ sf)
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Screen printing shop & darkroom
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New kitchen and accessible restroom
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Large common area (1,200+ sf) for events
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4-5 private studio spaces (100 - 150 sf each)
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Supply storage in mezzanines over classrooms
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Large project storage rental & more storage
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Outdoor space for hot works like foundry
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Sustainability through new revenue sources
Expansion Budget
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$300,000 for capital expenditures including: electrical, HVAC, plumbing, sprinkler systems, accessibility and security, lighting, framing, drywall, finishing, fixtures, cabinetry, furniture, and equipment for classrooms.​​
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$150,000 to enable the space to grow into the expansion, invest in new equipment, and reinvest in shops that will be reconfigured due to growth.​
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$50,000 for 6 months of rent and utilities to enable the space to scale operations during and immediately after expansion buildout.
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Financial Indicators of Expansion Need
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Makerspace revenues have grown significantly since 2021, indicating broad community engagement with programming.
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Class participation & revenue grew 13% in 2022, 36% in 2023, and another 25% in 2024
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Special programming with groups, schools, and youth increased 72% from 2022 to 2023, representing $33,000 in revenue in 2023.
Opportunities for Expansion
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Active memberships have grown, yet plateaued- we currently have 50+ active members, and hundreds of engaged students who are not yet members.
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The expansion would be a prominent location for community meetings and organization.
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The creation of private studio space would fill a significant need of the community.
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The capacity to host artists and makers who sell their goods at quarterly markets can expand.
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We can expand our ability to repurpose materials and tools, reducing waste.
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Our education programs can expand in scope (more disciplines) and frequency of offering.
