Open Works

Nonprofit makerspace with seven shops, microstudios and classes

Community HubSuburban Maryland

About Open Works

What it is

Open Works is a nonprofit makerspace founded in 2016 at 1400 Greenmount Avenue in Baltimore. Its mission is to make tools, technology and the knowledge to use them accessible to all. The 34,000 square foot facility includes seven shops (textiles, electronics, 3D printing, digital media, wood, metal and digital fabrication), a 16 machine computer lab, classrooms, studios and an on-site coffee shop, Black Acres Roastery.

What it offers founders

Pro Membership: sliding scale from $85 to $150 per month, with the same access to up to seven shops regardless of the price paid.
Microstudios: modular, short-term studios from $205 per month for coworking or launching a business.
Classes: hands-on classes on equipment basics and safety that unlock shop access.
Contract services: prototyping, short-run manufacturing, signage and custom architectural fabrication, offered as a service.

EnterpRISE pitch competition

The EnterpRISE competition is an annual pitch contest for product-based startups. Since 2017 it has invested $124,750 in 70 Maryland manufacturing startups. Prizes are $12,500, $7,500 and $2,500 for the top three, with $250 for seven runners-up. Ten finalists complete eight weeks of workshops, pitch coaching and shop classes before a live final pitch, and all participants get a year of free membership. Applicants must be over 18, U.S. citizens and Maryland residents. The 2026 application window ran from September 4 to October 9. Sponsors include the Maryland Department of Commerce, The Abell Foundation, M&T Bank and PNC Bank.

How to join

Every member starts with a free one-hour orientation tour, offered several times a week. Plans are signed up for and paid in person. Details are on the orientation and plans page and the microstudio rental page. Open Works is open Monday to Friday 9am to 9pm, Saturday 9am to 5pm and Sunday noon to 5pm. Phone: (410) 862-0424.

Why it matters in the DMV ecosystem

For hardware and physical product founders, Open Works offers sliding scale access to industrial tools, short-term studio space and contract prototyping under one roof, which can lower the cost of getting a first product built. Its EnterpRISE program connects makers with partners such as UpSurge Baltimore, Impact Hub, Made in Baltimore and JHU Fast Forward.

Programs

Pro Membership
Sliding scale membership from $85 to $150 per month with access to up to seven fabrication shops. Requires an orientation.
Microstudios
Modular, short-term studio spaces starting at $205 per month for coworking or launching a business.
EnterpRISE Pitch Competition
Annual pitch competition for Maryland product-based startups with cash prizes up to $12,500, eight weeks of workshops and a free year of membership.
Contract Services
Contract prototyping, short-run manufacturing, signage production and custom architectural fabrication.
Adult Classes and Programs
Hands-on classes on equipment basics, shop norms and machine safety that unlock shop access.
Youth Programs
Open Works programming for young people.

Who it serves

Makers, artists and hardware or product-based entrepreneurs in Baltimore who need affordable access to tools, studio space, training and prototyping.

Frequently asked questions

How much does membership cost?

Pro Membership is a sliding scale from $85 to $150 per month with the same shop access at any price. Microstudios start at $205 per month.

How do I join?

Attend a free one-hour orientation tour, offered several times a week, then sign up and pay for a plan in person.

Who can enter the EnterpRISE pitch competition?

Product-based startup founders who are over 18, U.S. citizens and Maryland residents. Previous finalists, Open Works employees and their families are not eligible.

Can Open Works build my prototype?

Yes. Its contract services cover prototyping, short-run manufacturing, signage and custom architectural fabrication.

Where and when is it open?

1400 Greenmount Ave, Baltimore, MD 21202. Hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 9pm, Saturday 9am to 5pm and Sunday noon to 5pm.