By Joy Allmond
NASHVILLE—Lifeway Christian Resources has launched FaithWorks—a faith-based coworking and shared office space that provides workspaces and services for Christian entrepreneurs, freelancers, startups and small businesses.
“We’re looking to attract individuals or small business owners who share Lifeway’s values,” said Amy Thompson, Lifeway’s director of corporate affairs.
The idea of hosting a coworking space came from Lifeway President and CEO Thom S. Rainer.
“As more people work for themselves rather than employers, many need a place to work beyond the traditional office lease and structure,” said Rainer. “When we completed our new facility, I saw a perfect opportunity for Lifeway to move into the coworking world with a first-class facility and a faith-based environment.”
When Lifeway moved from their former downtown campus to their current Capitol View location in November 2017, their square footage went from 1.3 million to 277,000.
Around the time the move was planned in 2015, Lifeway began implementing their Work From Anywhere (WFA) strategy, which allows headquarters employees to work remotely from any location to more effectively balance work with life.
“We built a facility with space for the 1,100 people we would be moving,” Thompson explained. “Over the two years leading up to the move, our WFA strategy was implemented—and was successful.
“By the time we moved, we had space for all of our employees, but we don’t have everyone here at once. That means we have some extra square footage to share with local professionals who want to work in a Christian environment.”
Competitively priced with similar service providers, FaithWorks offers the following with each membership level:
- Free WiFi
- Access to the Lifeway Café
- On-site fitness center membership
- Conference rooms
A variety of workspace choices are available, from open seating to dedicated desks and private offices.
FaithWorks members will also enjoy community-focused perks, such as invitations to attend Lifeway employee chapels—which often feature renowned Bible teachers and Christian artists, and opportunities to participate in other employee events—like local service projects and on-campus Bible studies.
There is also an option for members to add onsite parking to their membership.
Thompson says FaithWorks is not only good for Lifeway and for local professionals looking for a workspace in a Christian environment—but it also contributes to the Capitol View community at large.
LifeWay’s location in Capitol View offers FaithWorks members convenient access to restaurants and retail shops in a walkable neighborhood. The office building’s proximity to Interstate 65/40 provides easy access to the rest of metro area.
“Coworking spaces in Nashville are very popular right now,” she said. “Having one in this growing area is great for the new and soon-to-come businesses. It’s a way for Lifeway to be a good neighbor by bringing potential new customers to the restaurants and shops and being a positive presence in Capitol View.”
The first step in securing a FaithWorks membership is booking a tour. The general public is also invited to an open house on Tuesday, Sept. 18, from 6 to 8 p.m. For more information, visit FaithWorks.com.
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Joy Allmond is a writer for Lifeway Christian Resources.
