Exploring the coworking space as an innovation intermediary: a case study in Amsterdam

This qualitative study investigates the role of coworking spaces as innovation intermediaries, focusing on a specific case study in Amsterdam. We introduce a comprehensive framework that integrates five key coworking space units and delineates three primary innovation intermediary roles: facilitation, configuring, and brokering. Our research underscores the significance of both online and offline managerial interventions that stimulate social interaction, content configuration by staff and community members, active brokering through community managers, and formal/informal events. These strategic interventions collectively enhance information flows and knowledge exchange among entrepreneurs. This study contributes valuable insights into the mechanisms through which coworking spaces facilitate innovation intermediation in support of entrepreneurial endeavours.