INNOVATE—Inuvik’s newest Makerspace and Digital Media Marketing Studio—is being revitalized by a team of three bright and keen new staff. These recent renovations reflect a change in focus from a Technology Access Centre where community entrepreneurs were able to experiment with prototypes and new technologies, to a maturing community-focused makerspace and digital marketing and media studio. Going forward, community makers will feel more welcome and have the chance to help each other learn and design with exciting, high-tech tools.
In recent weeks and months, Innovate has made improvements to its facility that include a new interior layout with signage that will make it easier for new members to find and understand the creative activities that are available. New QR-code-based membership cards and a more prominent front desk will help users better understand what activities are available as soon as they walk in the door.
New features on all of our equipment that have been added recently also include informative labels and QR-codes which connect users with a database of local tips left by other members. These upgrades aim to help builders find out what tools are available, what they can do and how members can use them.
INNOVATE also has a new membership pricing structure that makes the facility more accessible to busy, part-time designers who only drop in occasionally.
Looking ahead, INNOVATE’s guiding goal is for Aurora College to build a stronger partnership with the Town of Inuvik, the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation and the Gwich’in Tribal Council. Stronger ties with our community partners will ensure the sustainability of the centre, will attract and keep highly skilled and dedicated staff, and continue building a community of builders in the Inuvik region.
By developing a community of applied makers, INNOVATE is contributing to economic activity in Inuvik and the surrounding region and advancing the regional economy. Aurora College will be working with INNOVATE staff, local governments, centre members and other interested parties, to establish clubs that are well-vetted with knowledgeable members can take on some responsibility for equipment upkeep, database of maintenance records and other outstanding needs.
To learn more, please visit INNOVATE – Centre for Arts, Crafts and Technology – INNOVATE Centre for Arts, Crafts and Technology | Aurora Research Institute