Since 2015, the Exchange for Entrepreneurs, originally dubbed Exchange: Oskaloosa CoWorking, has been meeting, learning, discussing, and addressing business issues and concerns for its members and attendees. Its success as an organization is due, in part, to the Iowa Building, a restored historic building in downtown Oskaloosa, and a potential grant opportunity to address a potential use for that building.

While in its identity infant stages, The Exchange explored the potential of establishing a co-working space and a business incubator resource while investigating the Iowa Building as a potential home. Though that investigation was premature, place continued to be discussed, area entrepreneurship was a high priority, and participant numbers and entrepreneurial awareness within Mahaska Community continued to grow.

In 2015, a community event was held introducing The Exchange as more than co-working, more than networking, but an opportunity to learn and grow through the experiences of everyone who sat around the table – those who took the leap of faith and entered the world of entrepreneurship, those who opened home businesses, those who opened brick and mortar storefronts, and those who addressed hybrid models working simultaneously in the traditional work world and an entrepreneurial world.

“Exchange Friday,” became a time for sharing, learning, networking, and problem-solving. It is held weekly on Friday mornings  (see Calendar for any exceptions). Special learning Education Presentations occur periodically thanks to experts from area businesses within and outside the Mahaska Community. “Entrepreneur Story-Telling” events provide opportunities to learn from area entrepreneurs and social gatherings are held from time to time to help keep a healthy balance.

Due are not required to be a part of The Exchange; just attendance at any one of the events, a desire to learn, and a willingness to listen and exchange ideas and information.