Coworking Space Archives -

October 29, 2025October 29, 2025

UNOVA Coworking: Breathing New Life into Mechanic Street with Erie County’s Storefront Revitalization Grant

UNOVA Coworking storefront revitalization project funded by Erie County grant

Two years ago, UNOVA Coworking in the heart of Springville, NY, received game-changing support through the Erie County Storefront Revitalization Grant – a program designed to help small businesses invest in their community, improve curb appeal, and create lasting local impact.

Thanks to this funding, we were able to complete a long-envisioned transformation of our corner-front facade on Mechanic Street, turning UNOVA into a more recognizable and welcoming destination for coworkers, creators, and community members alike.

This project unfolded in three major parts – each showcasing local craftsmanship, design vision, and our commitment to sustainability.

Eye-Catching Exterior Signage by Buffalo Signmakers

Designed by Kevin Opp Design and created by Buffalo Signmakers, Inc., we installed three, illuminated, routed metal signs that now shine proudly on both sides of our building. These modern, durable signs reflect our creative spirit and enhance downtown visibility – day and night.

Saed and his staff also designed and applied playful frosted vinyl graphics to our glass windows, adding a touch of artistry and privacy. Together, these features make UNOVA’s corner a standout presence on Mechanic Street.

A Living, Breathing Green Awning

The centerpiece of the revitalization – both literally and symbolically – is our green awning.

Installation of green awning at UNOVA Coworking on Mechanic Street in Springville NY

Installed by Mike, Andrew, and Ricky of Chevalier Outdoor Living, this feature integrates low-water plants, lightweight soil, and a custom drainage system into the existing awning structure.

This living element was an early inspiration for UNOVA itself. Our coworking model focuses on sustainability, the shared economy, and community growth, and now our building reflects that mission from the ground up (and over our heads!)

The green awning serves as a reminder that small businesses can blend functionality, design, and environmental consciousness in everyday operations.

Finishing Touches by Painting Pro

Finally, fellow-Springvillian Kevin Buncy of Painting Pro & Hardwood Flooring, Inc. completed the transformation by refinishing the upper flashing in black, complementing our awning and window framing. The previous white flashing had weathered and stained over time, and this fresh coat gives the entire facade a polished, cohesive appearance.

Illuminated metal signage designed by Buffalo Signmakers for UNOVA Coworking

A Heartfelt Thank You to Erie County

This transformation would not have been possible without the Erie County Storefront Revitalization Grant. The program empowered us to bring long-awaited design goals to life – enhancing not only our building but the vibrancy of downtown Springville as a whole.

At UNOVA Coworking, we believe small businesses thrive when communities invest in one another. We’re deeply grateful to Erie County for making this possible and proud to share our success story with others pursuing sustainable, community-driven growth.

Come See It for Yourself

Stop by UNOVA Coworking at the corner of Mechanic and Franklin Streets in Springville, NY, to see the transformation up close!

Illuminated metal signage designed for UNOVA Coworking funded by Erie County Storefront Revitalization Grant

Whether you’re looking for a flexible workspace, a meeting or event venue, or simply want to explore how sustainable design can revitalize our Main Street District, we’d love to welcome you.

Visit unovacoworking.com to learn more about our memberships, event spaces, and community programs.

July 1, 2024June 30, 2024

Embark on Your Entrepreneurial Journey With Confidence

Venturing into entrepreneurship can be a transformative experience, particularly for those stepping into this arena for the first time. The allure of bringing a personal vision to life is potent, yet it comes with inherent risks. From UNOVA Coworking, this comprehensive guide aims to equip first-time entrepreneurs with the tools and insights necessary to cautiously yet effectively embark on their business ventures. By adhering to these methodically laid-out steps, you can navigate the entrepreneurial landscape with assurance and acumen, ensuring a transition into business ownership that balances ambition with prudence.

Validate Your Business Idea

Commencing your entrepreneurial journey begins with the critical step of idea validation. This involves a thorough assessment of your business concept’s viability. Engage in extensive research, solicit customer feedback, and evaluate market demand. This step is about making an informed decision: is there a real need for your product or service? By answering this question, you set a solid foundation for your business, minimizing risks and aligning your efforts with market realities.

Craft a Streamlined Business Plan

A well-structured business plan is indispensable, even for small ventures. Your plan should succinctly outline your business goals, target market, revenue model, and anticipated expenses. This document serves as a roadmap, guiding your business decisions and helping you maintain focus. A streamlined plan is particularly beneficial for first-time entrepreneurs as it simplifies complex ideas and strategies, making them more manageable.

Register as an LLC

Embarking on your business venture brings several important decisions, one of which is the legal structuring of your company. Early in your entrepreneurial journey, it’s advisable to consider registering your business as a Limited Liability Company (LLC). This move is more than a mere formality; it’s a pivotal step in protecting your assets, optimizing for tax benefits, and elevating your business’s credibility. It effectively separates your personal and business liabilities. This separation is crucial as it safeguards your personal assets in the face of business-related legal matters. Choosing to register as an LLC with Zen Business can provide a robust foundation for your business, ensuring legal protections and credibility from the outset.

Begin With a Modest Business Scale

Start with a small-scale version of your business idea. This approach allows you to test the market, refine your product or service, and make necessary adjustments with minimal risk. As your business proves its viability, you can then consider scaling up operations in a controlled and sustainable manner.

Set Clear Investment Limits

One of the most critical aspects of cautious entrepreneurship is financial management. Determine a clear investment threshold that aligns with your financial comfort zone. This involves setting a budget for how much you’re willing to invest and potentially lose. Adhering to this limit helps prevent overextension and maintains your financial stability.

Establish a Cost-Effective Online Presence

In today’s digital age, having an online presence is crucial. Establish a functional website and maintain active social media profiles. This need not be expensive; numerous affordable options like Wix.com exist to create a professional online image. An effective online presence enhances your business’s credibility and extends its reach to a broader audience.

Network and Seek Mentorship

Building connections within the entrepreneurial community is invaluable. Networking with experienced business owners and seeking mentorship can provide you with insights, advice, and support. These relationships can be pivotal in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship and can open doors to new opportunities.

Utilize Coworking Spaces

Coworking spaces offer a cost-effective alternative to renting expensive office space, allowing businesses to save money on overhead costs. These shared workspaces provide a professional environment with all the necessary amenities, such as high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and printing facilities. Moreover, coworking spaces foster a vibrant community of entrepreneurs, freelancers, and professionals from various industries, creating valuable opportunities for networking and collaboration. By working alongside like-minded individuals at places like UNOVA Coworking, you can expand your professional network, exchange ideas, and potentially find new clients or partners to help grow your business.

Stepping into the realm of entrepreneurship need not be a plunge into the unknown. By taking measured, informed steps, you can embark on this journey with a sense of security and clarity. Begin modestly, plan strategically, and expand cautiously. This approach not only mitigates risk but also sets a foundation for sustainable growth and success in your entrepreneurial endeavors.

January 25, 2021January 24, 2021

5 Steps Freelancers Must Take When Transitioning to Small Business Ownership

In many ways, freelancing is similar to owning your own business. You get to set your own hours, pick and choose the types of projects you want to work on, and enjoy the flexibility of working wherever you’re most comfortable. However, there may come a time when you’re ready to take your freelance work to the next level — and delve into business ownership. As a small business owner (SBO), you can take on larger projects, hire a team of employees or independent contractors, and focus more of your time and energy on growing your actual business.

*Photo by Karolina Grabowska* on Pexels.com

If you’re ready to move from freelancer to small business owner, be sure to complete these five steps to make the transition as seamless as possible!

Step 1: Make a Plan

As a freelancer with months or years of experience up your sleeve, you’re already one step ahead of an aspiring business owner with no prior history of self-employment. However, you still need a business plan when transitioning from freelancer to SBO — no matter how long you’ve been freelancing for. Your business plan should discuss your office location, mission statement, financing needs, and the types of products or services you’ll be offering.

Learn how to write a basic business plan (which you can do easily enough). Or, you can check out online resources like LivePlan, $100 Startup, Bizplan, Copyblogger, and Enloop to find templates, tips, and advice for entrepreneurs in the making.

Step 2: Name Your Business

Though you may have been freelancing under your legal name, starting a small business typically requires you to register a formal business name with federal, state, and local agencies. However, specific requirements vary depending on where you live and how you structure your business, so you’ll need to familiarize yourself with these rules before moving forward.

In an article from USA Today, Benjamin Pimentel shares the ins and outs of choosing a unique name for your new business and registering it with the appropriate agencies. If you need help choosing a name, however, free online name generators can help to get your creative juices flowing.

Step 3: Know Your Legal Requirements

If you’ve been freelancing as a sole proprietor, you’ll need to decide whether to upgrade to a corporation or limited liability company (LLC) when transitioning to small business ownership. Sole proprietorships offer no form of liability protection, but corporations and LLCs do. As such, these legal entities are much more common among small business owners.

When structuring your business as a sole proprietorship, corporation, or LLC, keep in mind that the legal entity you choose will affect your tax obligations as a business owner. Therefore, it’s important to seek financial and legal advice from a skilled accountant and/or attorney if you have any business formation questions that need to be addressed.

Step 4: Open a Business Bank Account

As you transition from freelancer to SBO, it’s also important to open a separate bank account for keeping track of your business-related expenses and earnings. You’ll need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) in order to do so, but applying for one is as simple as completing an online application and providing your legal name and Social Security Number (or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number).

To open a business bank account, you’ll also need:

Any applicable business licenses and permits
Business owners agreements, if applicable
Formation documents, including the articles of organization ( LLCs) or incorporation (corporations)

Step 5: Get Paid

In addition to opening a business bank account, an online invoice maker can help you to keep track of outstanding balances, prepare, customize, and send invoices to clients, and get paid in less time. Receiving compensation for your hard work is incredibly important, and you’ll need to create a clear invoicing process before you start doing business.

A lot goes into starting a business, but the transition isn’t so scary when you’re already a seasoned freelancer. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and make the switch from freelancer to small business owner!

And if you’re searching for a professional coworking space for your newly launched business, join the growing UNOVA Coworking community!

Questions or comments? Have any additional tips or stories to share? Reply below or reach out to Lance Cody-Valdez at free-lance-now.com.