Editor’s note: This story originally ran on VeloCityOKC.com.
The Verge OKC is a cornerstone of entrepreneurial support in Oklahoma City, established as 501(c)(3) a non-profit through a partnership between Flourish OKC, Inasmuch Foundation and Cortado Ventures. This dynamic co-working and entrepreneurship hub offers essential resources like mentorship programs, networking events and flexible workspaces designed to stimulate business growth and innovation.
The Verge OKC is preparing for a significant transition to its new home on two floors in the Citizen Building by October. Located at the northeast corner of Robinson Avenue and NW 5th Street, this state-of-the-art, 12-story development spans 160,000 square feet.
Kristin Garcia, executive director of The Verge, shared the significance of this move: “What we’re seeing in Oklahoma City reflects both our current identity and our aspirations for new initiatives. Moving to the Citizen Building, the developers’ major focus is to create a space where a variety of ecosystems can connect.”
The Verge has been operating in its current space with little over 16,000 square feet and has successfully filled its offices and incubator space, demonstrating the effectiveness of its model. The new move will allow The Verge to expand its offerings and provide a more intentional and community-focused environment.
The new hub will encompass two floors, totaling approximately 28,000 square feet of community workspace. Each floor, around 12,000 to 14,000 square feet, is meticulously designed to enhance productivity and collaboration. Features include soundproof meeting rooms, versatile office and co-working areas and media rooms, with panoramic views of downtown Oklahoma City, including the OKC National Memorial Museum.
“The location symbolizes resilience and innovation,” Garcia notes. “We are excited about how this iconic building will merge the successful business owners of Oklahoma City’s past with the innovative entrepreneurs of the future. Our goal is to create a vibrant ecosystem where experienced professionals and new ventures can intersect, not just for funding but through valuable networking and mentorship.”
A key feature of the new space is the inclusion of about 60 reservable desks, allowing entrepreneurs to access a workspace without the need for a full office investment. “We want to make it easier for people to start with just a desk space and a workspace in a mailbox to get started,” Garcia explains. “Whether you’re launching a taco truck or a tech startup, The Verge is here to support you.”
The Citizen Building provides a unique vantage point within the city’s evolving business landscape. The building’s design includes a Downtowners club – Citizen House, an executive co-working floor and a hotel, enhancing the area’s appeal as a hub for both established and emerging businesses.
The Verge’s role in supporting entrepreneurs is further highlighted through their impactful partnerships. For instance, their collaboration with the Alliance for Economic Development on the OK Coders program has led to meaningful opportunities. “We connected an intern with Node Craft, a company from the gener8tor accelerator program. This intern’s role in customer service led to a full-time job offer,” Garcia shares.
Building on this success, The Verge has also supported Senslytics, a Cortado Ventures-funded company using AI to analyze the lifespan of ocean pipes in the oil and gas industry. “We mentored Senslytics with hiring international students and provided leadership coaching for their CEO,” she adds.
Expanding their network, The Verge’s partnership with i2E for the Oklahoma Commercialization Network (OCN) further strengthens their role in the business community. The OCN will help local businesses scale globally, turning innovative ideas into high-growth ventures. “With facilities in Tulsa and rural areas through REI Oklahoma, the OCN will foster a more interconnected business ecosystem,” Garcia explains.
Concluding, Garcia states, “We’re excited about our new location and how it will support our core value of ‘collaboration over competition.’ By bringing together diverse communities and resources, we’re paving the way for greater innovation and growth in Oklahoma City. Our goal is to support every entrepreneur by working together and leveraging our collective strengths.”
