In the heart of KW’s tech hub, a century-old industrial site has been reimagined as one of Canada’s largest privately held coworking spaces. What used to be Dominion Tire factory is now the home base for more than 170 companies who work out of Catalyst Commons.
Inside its 120,000-plus square feet, entrepreneurs, scale-ups, corporate teams, and independent professionals work side-by-side, forming connections that shape not just companies, but the future of the Waterloo Region’s innovation ecosystem.
From Factory Floors To Future-Ready Innovation
Catalyst Commons opened its doors in November 2020, during a time when uncertainty in the global workplace was at its peak. Rather than pull back, its founders saw an opportunity: to create a space that supported business resilience, fostered collaboration, and provided the kind of flexibility companies would need to thrive in the new era of work.
Catalyst Commons is housed within Catalyst137, Kitchener’s largest innovation hub. The building itself was revitalized to become a hub for tech companies and entrepreneurs. By placing Catalyst Commons within this campus, the founders ensured that members would not only have access to premium workspace but also be embedded in an ecosystem buzzing with industry expertise, mentorship opportunities, and strategic partnerships.
When it launched in late 2020, Catalyst Commons offered an impressive range of flexible workspaces, meeting rooms, and event areas. But it didn’t take long for demand to outpace capacity.
In Fall 2024, Commons doubled its footprint with a 75,000-square-foot expansion. The new space added premium private offices, team suites for up to 100 people, additional meeting rooms, and two additional event venues—further establishing Commons as a go-to destination for both early-stage companies and established enterprises looking for flexible office and collaboration space.
Leadership with Vision
Catalyst Commons was created by leaders deeply rooted in the Waterloo Region’s tech and entrepreneurial landscape: Amber French, Kurtis McBride, and Angela Watkins.
Amber, Managing Partner at Catalyst Ventures and a driving force behind the region’s investment ecosystem, envisioned a space that was equal parts professional and community-driven.
Kurtis, CEO of Miovision and a serial entrepreneur, understood firsthand the challenges and opportunities of scaling in the Waterloo Region and brought his expertise in building companies from the ground up.
In addition to being a partner, Angela is also the General Manager of Catalyst Commons. She ensures that every detail, from the way spaces are designed to how events are curated, fosters productivity, collaboration, and a sense of belonging.
Together, their vision, experience, and leadership shape a community recognized for its warm, professional atmosphere and its ability to support everything from solo workdays to large-scale corporate gatherings.
Amenities Designed for Modern Work
Catalyst Commons’ amenities reflect its mission: to make work not only efficient but also enjoyable. Members have access to:
- Flexible workspace options: hot desks, dedicated desks, private offices, and custom team suites.
- Well-equipped event spaces, plug and play meeting rooms, an airy atrium, and two full kitchens.
- High-speed, reliable Wi-Fi; professional printing; mail handling; and secure parking.
- Sustainability sourced complimentary coffee and tea, with open-access kitchens designed for impromptu conversations.
- Pet-friendly policies that allow well-behaved dogs to be part of the workday.
These features are matched by an active events calendar like member socials, pop-up lunches featuring local restaurants, team-building events, professional development sessions, and wellness classes that bring the community together beyond their daily work.
Stories of Impact
Over the years, Catalyst Commons has hosted an array of members whose journeys illustrate the power of community-based workspaces and how it can support members’ business growth.
One early-stage startup joined with a single desk and access to shared amenities. Within 18 months, they had grown into a 12-person team and moved into a private suite—using the Commons’ event spaces to host product launches.
Independent professionals have also found their footing here, expanding their client bases through connections made over coffee or at community events.
Looking Forward
With its recent expansion complete, Catalyst Commons has plans to deepen its impact on the region’s innovation economy. This includes hosting larger-scale events, expanding partnerships with local and national organizations, and continuing to adapt space and services to meet the evolving needs of the modern workforce.
The leadership team is also expanding Commons’ role beyond its walls through a new charity initiative that supports local causes. The program connects members with opportunities to give back, whether through volunteering, skills-sharing, or event-based fundraising, reflecting the Commons’ commitment to making a positive difference in the Waterloo Region.
The vision for Catalyst Commons’ future is one where it remains not only a workplace but also a regional showcase for innovation and community impact, a place where international delegations, investors, and thought leaders can experience the energy, creativity, and collective spirit that make Waterloo Region unique.
From its industrial roots to its role as a modern-day hub of innovation, Catalyst Commons embodies the resilience and forward-thinking spirit of the Waterloo Region. It stands as proof that when vision, community, and infrastructure align, the results can transform not just companies, but entire communities.
