New Haven enjoys a reputation as an engine of new ideas, inventions and ventures. With eight colleges and universities, the city is able to develop a specialized workforce tailored to meet the needs of its diverse industries — bioscience, digital technology and creative enterprises. There are positive economic indicators, notably a rising number of jobs in young firms. However, retaining top talent and sustaining the economic growth of startups is a challenge. Ives Squared builds inclusive economic growth, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to participate and skill-up in the 21st-century economy.

An anchor in the ECIC, NHFPL provides matching funds to Collab, offering coaching and accelerator services in Ives Squared, focusing on underrepresented communities. Through co-created workshops, resource guides and panel discussions, we aim to remove barriers to success for aspiring entrepreneurs. Ives Squared hinges co-working amenities with makerspace tech, integrating resources and support to entrepreneurs and creatives alike. Reaching 15,000 visitors in year one, this hub cross-pollinates partner services — from the Chamber of Commerce and MakeHaven to Holberton School and Grow with Google.

Ives Squared is a magnet for partnerships, increasing the library’s reach and impact. Our unique data dashboard features usage statistics, Project Outcome results and digital badges. We will debut a customer intake form for our in-residence specialists to help us understand the evolving talent pipeline and “handshakes” across ECIC partners. Our new services enhance our reputation: Ives Squared served as a Chamber Leadership Field Site and was featured in the premier issue of New Haven Biz. In the coming months, we will establish satellite micro-branches at the Chamber with a new library card for local businesses.