The ICELab Introduces the Hub

The ICELab is expanding! The second ICELab location, called the Hub, will provide light manufacturing, office space and distribution space.

Where is the Hub?

It is located at 1000 N Main St, Gunnison, CO 81230. It is next door to Natural Grocers.

What is the Hub?

It is designed to support businesses that export products or services beyond Gunnison County. It will provide flexible office, warehouse and distribution space. Exporter businesses can utilize the warehouse space for storage and light manufacturing. It will also be equipped with a loading dock for distribution. Businesses will also have the option to hold an office in the Hub.

Timeline for the Hub

End of 2023 – The ICELab started to think about how it could operate a space like this.

2024 – The ICELab began looking at commercial properties that could satisfy the needs of the Hub. The ICELab looked at a few different places throughout the year that ended up not working out.

Beginning of 2025 – The ICELab looked at the old Sears building and began the process of leasing it.

End of April 2025 – Lease signed.

Beginning of July 2025 – Construction began.

End of 2025/beginning of 2026 – Construction is projected to be finished and the space will be open.

Who is the Hub for?

The Hub is specifically for exporter businesses. This includes business owners who are currently exporting outside of Gunnison County or those seeking to enter new markets.

Will there be coworking opportunities at the Hub?

Daily drop-ins will be available at the Hub.

Why is the ICELab opening the Hub?

The ICELab has worked closely with entrepreneurs in the Gunnison Valley for several years. Throughout this time, we have learned what challenges entrepreneurs in rural Colorado face. A need for commercial space with shared resources that includes storage, distribution and manufacturing space was a common desire. The Hub will serve as a central location for growing companies to scale operations, collaborate with other entrepreneurs, and access the resources needed to expand into regional and national markets.

When will the Hub open?

It should be open and ready for tenants to move in at the beginning of 2026.

Do I need to have worked with the ICELab in the past to be in the Hub?

No! The Hub is open to all exporter businesses in Gunnison County.

What will it cost to be in the Hub?

Please reach out to ICELab Program Manager Ben Engman at [email protected] for more cost information.

What amenities will the Hub have?

The Hub will be equipped with a community kitchen that includes a fridge, microwave, hot water kettle, coffeepot and tableware. Basic office supplies such as tape, paperclips, pens, staples and envelopes will also be available. The space will also have printing and laminating. Crested Bucha kombucha and Coffeelab cold brew will be on tap.

What’s included in a membership at the Hub?

All tenants at the Hub have access to high-speed WIFI, basic office furniture (desk, chair, trashcan, and filing cabinet), and the amenities listed above. Tenants can also use the space 24/7.

What if I just need storage or access to the warehouse, but not office space, or vice versa?

That’s totally fine! Tenants are not required to utilize everything offered at the Hub. Reach out to the ICELab with your business needs and we are happy to explore different options.

How can I get my business in the Hub?

Those interested in being a tenant at the Hub should reach out to the ICELab. Please email Ben Engman at [email protected] to learn more about what space is available and how the available resources might be able to help your business grow.

What is the ICELab?

The ICELab is the Gunnison Valley’s entrepreneurial support organization. “ICE” stands for innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship. The ICELab has several goals related to economic development. These goals include:

• Creating more high-paying jobs in Gunnison County.
• Supporting local businesses that export products or services outside of the county.
• Nurturing connections between entrepreneurs, established businesses, mentors, investors and state resources.
• Fostering the entrepreneurial spirit in Western Colorado University Students.
• Operating a coworking space, the ICELab @ Western.

What is happening at the ICELab @ Western?

The ICELab @ Western will continue operating as a coworking space. The ICELab @ Western is equipped with high-speed internet, 24/7 building access, monitors, standing desks, private rooms for phone and video calls, and office supplies. Its location on Western Colorado University’s campus is central and close to the Signal Peak trail system. Non-exporter businesses and remote workers can still rent private office space at the ICELab @ Western. Monthly memberships and drop-ins will also continue to be available.

Building a Business in the Gunnison Valley

Discover more about the infrastructure of the Gunnison Valley and how that affects building a business here. This guide provides information about the airport, highway access, internet providers, shipping and freight options, and healthcare. Read the infrastructure guide to learn more about living and operating a business in the Gunnison Valley.

Have more questions?

Reach out to the ICELab, and we will be happy to help!