Project news
Edit 27 March 2020
by NextGen Microcities project team

Valmiera opens DARE, the makerspace for creative ideas and new opportunities

Valmiera opens DARE, the makerspace for creative ideas and new opportunities
At the end of February, the makerspace DARE (Latvian – Valmieras koprades darbnīca DARE) opened its doors in Valmiera. It provides anyone interested with the opportunity to use modern equipment, tools, cosy premises and technical support at no extra cost to work on new products, prototypes and various creative projects.

There are currently two rooms available in the makerspace, each with a special name - the Greenhouse (Latvian - Siltumnīca) and the Garage (Latvian – Garāža). Creative graphics and design experiments take place in the Garage. Here, in an inspiring environment for aspiring and existing designers, you will find a graphic press, screen printing and a light desk. The Greenhouse, on the other hand, offers 3D printers, 3D scanners, 3D pens, sewing machines, overlocks, soldering stations and equipment, as well as a photo lab to take quality photos of your latest idea, product or prototype. Metal and woodworking equipment are also available. DARE will soon be equipped with a CNC cutter and a laser cutter.

For manufacturers DARE offers to use the production line simulator developed by IntelliTech Ltd. The simulator analyses the flow of a production line with the help of visual, sound and light sensors and thus assists in evaluating the capabilities and necessary improvements of existing and planned production lines.

DARE will organize a variety of creative workshops where, with the help of professionals, participants will have the opportunity to explore DARE equipment and tools and work together to create and execute many inspiring projects. More information on the planned workshops, their dates and registration options will be available on the Valmiera Development Agency's homepage under the section Workshop DARE (Latvian – Darbnīca DARE) as well as on the DARE Facebook page (@DARE.VKD).

Skilled DARE professionals will be available on site to provide advice on how to use the equipment and how to operate more efficiently in the makerspace. When coming to DARE, please bring along your ID as the makerspace is located in the school premises. If you already know which equipment you plan to work with, please bring the necessary materials and supplies with you.  Advice on the necessary materials and supplies is available in advance from DARE specialists. If possible, all interested parties are kindly invited to make an appointment by writing or calling the email or phone number provided on the Valmiera Development Agency's homepage under the section Workshop DARE. The makerspace DARE is also available for group excursions and workshops by prior arrangement.
    
DARE is located on the premises of Valmiera Design and Art School, at 12 Purva Street, Valmiera, Latvia. It was created by Valmiera Development Agency and IntelliTech Ltd. in cooperation with Valmiera Design and Art School and Valmiera City Council. 

 

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