Free-for-all hackerspace Noisebridge is fighting to stay free

Noisebridge, a hackerspace in San Francisco, is in a financial crisis, requiring $50,000 by December to avoid closure. Volunteer Elan Hourticolon-Retzler reports that the space has only three months of operating funds left, primarily due to reduced donations linked to recent tech layoffs. After moving to a larger facility on Capp Street, the organization encountered increased expenses, including a $6,000 monthly deficit. Noisebridge has long prided itself on being a free space for all, with 80% of its members currently using it without charge. The community is now exploring various fundraising strategies, such as a silent auction and classes, to maintain its operations.

The hackerspace supports a diverse group of individuals, from students to laid-off tech workers, who seek to acquire new skills in an inclusive environment. Hourticolon-Retzler emphasizes the importance of keeping the space accessible, stating, “One of our cornerstone goals has always been to never turn someone away for a lack of funds. ” The urgency of the situation highlights the challenges faced by non-profits in high-cost areas like San Francisco.