Chennai’s first government-run coworking space, launched in November 2024, has quickly become a popular hub for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and students. Located in Kolathur, a neighbourhood not traditionally known for startups or corporate culture, the facility has hosted over 32,000 users in just six months. This pilot project, named Muthalvar Padaipagam—meaning Chief Minister’s Creative Space—was established to provide affordable, quality workspace options in a post-pandemic era where many professionals are seeking alternatives to working from home.

With 38 desks and three conference rooms, the space offers high-speed internet, air conditioning, security, housekeeping, and a cafeteria. Monthly desk rentals are priced at just ₹2,500, with daily rates at ₹50 for a half-day and ₹100 for a full day—far lower than private coworking spaces in Chennai, where hot desks typically cost between ₹5,000 and ₹12,000 per month. The affordability has attracted a diverse user base, from a 22-year-old college graduate running a growing tourism startup to a 52-year-old former IT executive turned entrepreneur.

• Udayaprakash, the young founder of Cheroot Holidays, highlighted the financial advantage: “It costs me ₹25,000 monthly to rent desk spaces for my team and book conference rooms. If I rented privately, my overheads would have been in lakhs.” His company, which expanded from student tours to international travel, operates from the space alongside professionals commuting from upscale neighbourhoods like Anna Nagar.

The coworking space shares a building with a ‘learning centre’ upstairs, where students preparing for competitive exams can study for just ₹5 a day. Demand is so high that users often book desks months in advance. Dr G.K. Balasubramaniam, a NEET-PG aspirant, said, “Getting a desk here has become a craze. It’s even more beneficial for poor students who come after their day jobs.” The facility supports a mix of students from various backgrounds, including government exam candidates and even a truck driver preparing for civil services.

R.J. Madhan, a 52-year-old CEO and former head of automation at Tech Mahindra, praises the space for blending old-school professionalism with modern amenities. Having commuted four hours daily to the IT corridor, he now reaches his desk within 10 minutes and spends long hours working productively in a supportive environment. “I’m here all week, even Sundays,” Madhan says, noting how the space’s structure encourages focused work hours.

Financial analyst S Subramani, who previously worked from home and in private coworking spaces, finds the government facility equally premium. “I’m more productive here. At home, it’s hard to manage time, but here, I finish work by 9 pm when the space closes.” The environment, with ergonomic chairs and quiet zones, helps users maintain work discipline and community engagement.

Muthalvar Padaipagam’s success has prompted expansion plans across Chennai and Tamil Nadu. Helen Anita, who oversees the project, emphasises the social mission behind it: “We aim to provide low-cost spaces for startups, women entrepreneurs, and students. Large corporations are discouraged from long-term bookings to ensure availability for our target users.” The project is not profit-driven but designed to foster inclusive growth in Chennai’s evolving workspace landscape.

This government initiative sets a new standard in affordable, well-equipped coworking spaces, reflecting the growing demand for flexible, cost-effective office solutions post-pandemic. It illustrates how public-sector support can complement private coworking models, helping diverse communities access professional environments conducive to growth and productivity.