Episode Summary:
What happens when coworking spaces stop competing and start collaborating?
In this episode, Bernie sits down with Sam Poler, one of the organisers behind the Coworking Alliance Summit, to discuss why alliances matter, how they help independent coworking spaces thrive, and why more people need to know about this global movement.
Coworking alliances aren’t just about pooling resources—they’re about creating a collective voice, shaping local economies, and proving that collaboration is more substantial than competition.
From navigating local government partnerships to securing grants and refining community-building strategies, the Coworking Alliance Summit is where operators at every stage—whether just starting out or well—established—come together to share knowledge, build connections, and strengthen their impact.
The Coworking Alliance Summit is run by Sam, Ashley and Hector
If you run a coworking space or want to build something bigger than four walls and WiFi, this episode is for you.
Timeline Highlights
[00:40] – What is the Coworking Alliance Summit?
[02:22] – What do we mean by “alliance”?
[04:19] – How coworking alliances help spaces thrive
[06:02] – The “coworking imposter syndrome” that stops people from joining
[09:13] – Making coworking alliances more globally inclusive
[10:48] – Bringing ideas back to your local coworking scene
[12:14] – Why new coworking alliances are emerging
[14:03] – The power of learning from others—so you don’t have to reinvent the wheel
[17:08] – How the summit is structured (interactive, not just speakers)
[19:27] – When and where the event takes place
Key Takeaways
Alliances strengthen coworking. They help spaces connect, share strategies, and advocate for coworking on a larger scale.
You don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re starting an alliance or running a space, the summit connects you with people who’ve been there.
The movement is growing. New alliances like POC (People of Coworking) (Jerome’s episode is here) and Flock (Future Leaders of Coworking) are redefining collaboration.
Coworking is global, but the conversation needs to be more inclusive. How do we ensure spaces beyond North America and Europe are represented?
This event is for everyone. You don’t need a huge space or a big budget—if you care about coworking, you belong here.
Links & Resources:
One more thing
Coworking brings communities together, helping people find and share their voices.
Each episode of the Coworking Values Podcast explores the core values driving coworking: Accessibility, Community, Openness, Collaboration, and Sustainability.
These values aren’t just ideas—they shape the spaces where we gather, work, and grow.
We hope this resonates with you.
If it does, please rate, follow, and share the podcast.
Your support amplifies our reach, helping others discover how coworking can enrich lives, build careers, and strengthen communities.
Community is the key 🔑
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