Workspace for entrepreneurs coming to Kress building

Vision City Development Group plans to unveil Springboard Baton Rouge, an “entrepreneurial executive office space,” in the Kress building at Third and Main streets by Sept. 1. The 12,000-square-foot space on the second floor will feature 40 cubicles available for daily, weekly or monthly renters and 30 offices targeted toward longer leases of six months to a year or more, Vision City Chairman John Schneider says. The target market will be early-stage companies, including entrepreneurs currently working out of their homes. A common reception area, back office support and four conference rooms also are planned. Schneider says entrepreneur training seminars and mentorship opportunities will be available. Vision City hopes to set up a venture capital group at the space, offering micro-loan financing of $1,500 to $5,000. A 2,500-square-foot Internet café is planned for the first floor. The Kress building will now be fully leased, Schneider says. —David Jacobs