We work with a lot of startups at BIGfish, so we understand the benefits of coworking spaces. Startups often can’t afford their own office space, but still need somewhere to work, and can benefit from with the support of a community and morale that typically comes from working closely with others. Starting your own business is far from easy, and we believe that coworking spaces can pave the way towards a company’s big break. They allow members to easily meet, collaborate and network – essential tools for any business. These awesome, local startup communities just might be the solution to take your company to the next level and increase your chances of success.

TechHub Boston: Affordable space exclusively for tech startups

TechHub Boston, a BIGfish client, recently opened its first North American location in Somerville’s Davis Square. Europe’s leading technology startup organization with 8 locations worldwide, TechHub offers its members an international network of technology entrepreneurs. With flex memberships starting at just $450, TechHub members have access to various resources, events and a supportive and energetic community to keep them motivated and inspired. Since it’s exclusive to tech startups, members often relate to one another and are able to provide more thoughtful, relevant feedback and advice. Aside from Somerville, TechHub has locations in London, Bangalore, Riga, Berlin, Bucharest and Swansea.

Workbar: A flexible, convenient space

A friendly and flexible environment, Workbar hubs welcome members to its locations in Boston and Cambridge as well as to its extended Workbar Network at its Beyond Boston locations. Members can settle in at any of these Workbar Network spaces while also utilizing the Workbar Hubs when traveling or meeting in the city. Those at Workbar understand that all business have different stages in their development, so they focus on flexible and affordable membership options, satisfying each individual’s specific needs. Members share the space with a diverse, supportive network of businesses and individuals and are able to work in communal workspaces, reserve time in meeting rooms, and host events. Additionally, Workbar provides social and educational programming including happy hours, networking events and workshops.

WeWork: Laid-back, collaborative space

WeWork invites all entrepreneurs to its space, providing a wide spectrum of businesses with a variety of different backgrounds. Those at WeWork focus on the “we,” and how being part of a team effort is the key to success. WeWork provides benefits like high-speed internet, access to conference rooms and private phone booths, and weekly networking and informational events. The space is also very laid-back, filled with glass offices to create a more inviting environment, and even offers beer on tap to enjoy at the end of a long workday.

MassChallenge: An exclusive mentorship program

With programs in Boston, Israel and the UK, MassChallenge is a coworking space whose mission is to connect startups with the resources they need to succeed. Businesses have to apply to become members, creating an exclusive community including only businesses that embody MassChallenge’s values. In addition to gaining access to office space, MassChallenge startups participate in a 4-month program to help them develop. One particularly interesting component of MassChallenge is their mentorship program. Over 600 people volunteer their time and expertise to help the businesses overcome their individual obstacles and grow. Startups are paired with 2-4 of these expert mentors to work with throughout their development and choose from an array of events to participate in based on their needs.

RevUp: Growth through revenue for established startups

Providence, RI’s Betaspring recently announced its new RevUp accelerator program. RevUp is located in Boston’s Financial District and was created for technology-enabled companies whose main goal is growth through revenue. RevUp only works with companies that are already generating between $10,000-$15,000 in revenue per month, giving them all $75,000 in investment and allowing them to participate in a three-month program to benefit their business. RevUp does not take equity, but rather gets a return as revenue accumulates. RevUp is currently accepting applications and will invite companies to their space between June 2015 and January 2016.

NGIN Workplace: An innovation hub with the little things taken care of

Centrally located in Kendall Square in Cambridge, NGIN Workplace is yet another superb coworking space for startups, freelancers, and emerging companies. NGIN emphasizes its strong, diverse community and provides its members with a wide variety of office spaces, meeting rooms, project rooms and more. Those at NGIN believe that young entrepreneurs should have the little things taken care of ⎼ that’s why they offer contract-free memberships, a fun environment with food and exercise classes, and benefits like free transportation and 24/7 access.