DUBUQUE, Iowa— Two individuals have been awarded memberships to the Key City Creative Center to develop their skills and training, thanks to a partnership between Dupaco Community Credit Union, the Dupaco R.W. Hoefer Foundation and the Dubuque makerspace.
Kenneth Bichell and Gail Chavenelle, both of Dubuque, were selected among applicants to receive the non-renewable, annual memberships, the credit union said.
Key City Creative Center is a makerspace that provides its members with a low-cost and spacious environment to build and collaborate on projects and ideas. The center offers equipment and classes on woodworking, welding, metal working, 3-D printing, pottery and sewing.
Membership, which provides 24/7 access and use of equipment at the center, allows individuals to develop skills that might not otherwise be available.
Dupaco said it partnered with Key City Creative Center to provide another opportunity for individual empowerment. The winners will have a space to create and develop products and establish partnerships with other local creators – which could lead to small business opportunities. Past award recipients did just that and used their membership to start and grow their businesses.
As a credit union benefit, all Dupaco members receive a $10/month discount off monthly and annual Key City Creative Center membership costs. Membership also provides access to the Dupaco sponsored BizHub located within Key City Creative Center. The BizHub provides members with office and conference space to manage their business ventures, Dupaco added.
“This partnership presents a great opportunity to provide invaluable resources to those who are thinking about starting a business or doing freelance work,” said Dupaco President and CEO Joe Hearn. “As a financial cooperative, Dupaco gives members the tools and resources to move them toward reaching their goals—no matter where life takes them.”
Applicants completed a questionnaire, which was available throughout November. Judging was based on the applicants’ need and desire to improve their skills and their goal and plan for skill sustainability, the credit union explained.