Hackspace organization setup

Discussion
1

Hello

I am Tom from Hackspace High Wycombe.
We are a group of 10-15 regular members that have been meeting twice a month for about 3 years in the back of a pub. Recently we have moved to renting a hall which is funded by one kind member.

We are currently trying to set up a way of funding the hall rental from members but don’t have any experience in this area.

From the research we have done we are leaning towards a unincorporated association due to the simpler administration as we have no current plans to get a space of are own but are aware this may be a plan in the future. I have read that the HSF recommends a Limited By Guarantee company but we are not sure what this would involve.

I would be great if we could get some input from anyone that has experience with these things and what pitfalls we should look out for.

Thanks

2

Hack Oldham went down the company limited by guarantee route and it was fairly painless. No different that setting up a limited company.

If you are considering funding you should speak to http://www.communityimpactbucks.org.uk/. They will be able to show you what funding is available in your area and what company type is suitable.

A hackspace is a “voluntary organisation” and as a result there is a lot of support available if you look for it.

3

Thank you @p0welly for the information.

I had heard of community impact bucks but there is some really good stuff on there that I missed.

Will keep looking and go ask some other hackspaces.

Thank you again

Tom