Bridging the Digital Divide—Building the Future in the Bronx
A community-designed hub for creative tech, led by Bronx talent, for Bronx residents.
Overview
Makerspace is a community-designed digital learning space, built in the Bronx by Bronx residents. It’s a place where curiosity meets creativity—where young people and adults alike can explore hands-on technology, express themselves through design, and build future-ready skills in a welcoming, inclusive environment.
Launched through the Designed by Community Fellowship—an initiative of the NYC Mayor’s Office for Economic Opportunity and its Service Design Studio—the Makerspace was developed in partnership with Bronx leaders and neighbors. Phipps Neighborhoods was the only Bronx-based nonprofit selected to co-design and launch this visionary project.
Today, the space hosts free tech workshops in areas like 3D modeling, audio production, and digital design—taught by local artists, technologists, and community members. It’s a place for creativity, self-expression, and opportunity.
Our Approach
We believe learning should be hands-on, community-powered, and rooted in joy.
Our model is built on five core values:
Hands-On Learning
Explore real tools in audio production, 3D modeling, coding, design, and more.
Community-Centered
Co-designed by local residents through a citywide innovation initiative.
Artist-Led
All workshops are taught by local makers, creatives, and technologists.
Free & Accessible
No cost. No prior experience needed. Just show up with curiosity.
Future-Ready
Digital fluency is more than a skill—it’s a tool for expression, employment, and empowerment.
In New York City, nearly 1 in 4 low-income households lack broadband access, limiting access to education, work, and opportunity.
NYC Office of Technology & Innovation, 2023
The Makerspace exists to close that gap—one workshop at a time.
Help Us Build a Brighter Tomorrow
We believe access to digital tools and creative technology is a right—not a privilege. With your partnership, we can expand this free, community-designed Makerspace and grow the next generation of creators, coders, and makers in the Bronx. Whether you’re a funder looking to support this vision or a local artist ready to share your skills—we want to hear from you.
Interested in investing in Bronx-led digital equity or leading a workshop? Contact us today!