A new space for enterprise

After a relaunch and reveal of more impressive space at the weekend, Maker + Co is well and truly set to make waves in Bunbury.

The renovation and fit out of the lower level space at the recently refurbished Bill Brown building and former Lyric Theatre means the social enterprise will be able to expand its services to benefit its small and start-up business clients.

Creative director Colette McEntee said the addition of more space and other structural work at the building meant the enterprise could further help the South West community.

“We are a social enterprise focused on creating social and economic opportunities for sections of the community who have traditionally been marginalised,” Ms McEntee said.

“In a nutshell, a social enterprise diverts a percentage of their profits into a social mission.”

The CBD enterprise’s retail space provides an opportunity for the region’s artists and artisans to sell their creations at the building and Aboriginal leader Troy Bennell’s clothing line is one such initiative taking up the chance.

Owners Ms McEntee, Craig Holland and Katie Van Den Brand are working hard to also focus on more partnerships with organisations in the South West, WA’s regional arts projects and making sure funding delivered to the region is benefiting start-ups, existing business and support services.

Ms McEntee said incubating was also an opportunity business owners should snap up.

“We use our network for good to guide the next generation of small business owners in the Bunbury Geographe region,” she said.

“It is our goal to develop opportunities and economic opportunity by tapping into the experience of some business savvy minds.”

A screening of Jasper Jones and other short stories will be held on the weekend in one of the first events to use the new space.

Ms McEntee said the new room was a beautiful backdrop for art exhibitions and even weddings.