In 2006, Jim Newton founded TechShop, a startup franchise that’s part clubhouse, part workshop, part artists studio and part Geeks’ lair. The exact nature of the TechShop culture is hard to explain, but the concept is fairly straightforward–you bring your big ideas (robots, product prototypes, a new clothing line, your first attempt at a coffee table) and TechShop provides a big warehouse filled with the latest tools and equipment, and a bit of expertise to make sure you don’t lose a finger or three.
TechShop was born of Newton’s desire to offer geeks, do-it-yourselfers, inventors and tinkerers a way to make their drawings, ideas and designs real. Newton understood that not everyone has access to all of the expensive equipment and tools needed to build their dream creature, and that expensive equipment becomes even more so when it has to be constantly updated.
Newton opened his first TechShop location in Menlo Park, CA. The concept took off almost immediately, so Newton decided to spread the love by opening multiple locations throughout the country. Newton marshaled a band of investors and rolled out a franchise offering. There are currently nine TechShop locations set to open in Summer 2008.
“TechShoppers”, members who gleefully fork over $30 for a daily pass, $100 for a monthly pass or $1,200 for an annual pass, can access the workshop and equipment seven days a week from 9am to midnight (24/7 access on the way). They can also take classes ($30 each), attend events and learn from fellow tinkerers.
If you’re interested in working at TechShop, they’re currently looking for an intern (unpaid) but, with 9 new locations in the offing, may be looking for skilled instructors to teach classes on safety and equipment use and managers to take care of daily operations.
Interested in owning a TechShop franchise? Contact TechShop online or TechShop Headquarters at partners@techshop.ws, or call (800) 640-1975. I’m not sure of the costs associated with the franchise, but since Newton reportedly spent upwards of $250,000 to open the first location on his own, it’ll likely be a bit pricey.
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