__"The more we learn about the human brain and about collective intelligence across the species, the clearer it becomes that physical proximity and a work environment that supports and promotes interaction are essential components of collaboration."
— Herman Miller

As a small business, I'm a big believer that working from home does NOT work. So in the beginning of my journey as a solo-prenuer three years ago I looked for ways I could leave the house and get work done. Lucky for me there was a movement underway spearheaded by Don Ball and Kyle Coolbroth to create a co-working space in downtown St. Paul called CoCo — a co-working and collaborative space. CoCo has always attracted really smart, innovative people that, like me, work best in creative spaces.

I've had my own office for over two years now in a historic building that keeps me inspired on the days that I don't have client meetings and just need some quality thinking time. But this year has me scratching the itch again, longing for a physical space that encourages collaboration. CoCo has launched a second location in downtown Minneapolis in the former Grain Exchange building and it's nothing short of spectacular and hands-down inspiring. Big vaulted ceilings, beautiful natural light and a great playlist. At CoCo, grain has long been replaced by ideas and technology and I think I just might be interested in doing a little trading in 2012.

- betsey