The Coven, a women-focused and nonbinary-inclusive coworking company situated in Minneapolis, holds a distinctive approach to work flexibility, birthed as an antidote to conventional workplace drawbacks. Co-founded by Alex Steinman and three others in 2017, the concept emerged partly in response to Donald Trump’s presidency, with the name pre-existing before its physical manifestation.
For Steinman and her co-founders, ‘The Coven’ was an endearing term they used amongst themselves even before the business came into being. The spaces spread across St. Paul, Minneapolis, and a franchised outlet were crafted with a strong emphasis on fostering a sense of “belonging.” This notion of belonging aligns with the evolving trend in workplace design, focusing on community-oriented spaces. The Coven’s offerings, such as meet and greets, ‘Black Joy Coffee Hours,’ and upcoming events like the Radical Changemaker Awards, are aimed at fostering connections and social engagement.
In discussing Return to Office (RTO), it’s crucial to consider factors like race and gender, as highlighted by management and DEI experts. Minneapolis, home to The Coven, reflects a community that champions LGBTQ rights, signed into law by Governor Tim Walz.
While witchcraft sees a resurgence, so does RTO, with most employers projected to bring back employees to the office by 2024. Despite financial hurdles, coworking spaces like WeWork continue to witness growth. The Coven, despite being relatively young, has seen a substantial uptick in team memberships, reflecting an increasing demand for such inclusive workspaces.
The name ‘The Coven’ draws inspiration from its roots, signifying a gathering or convening, much beyond its association with witches. Steinman emphasises that the future of work is about flexibility and inclusivity, reflecting the evolving workplace culture.
Despite its name evoking imagery of eerie woods and ancient rituals, The Coven embodies a place where diverse individuals and change-makers converge to create something magical. For Steinman, the name encapsulates the power when all genders and radical thinkers come together.
