UPDATE: Noisebridge, the vital hackerspace in the Mission District of San Francisco, is in a dire financial crisis and urgently needs community support to avoid closure. Volunteers report that the collective has only a few months of operational funding left and may have to implement charges for access if they do not secure new donations.
As of November 10, 2023, Noisebridge is facing approximately $12,000 in monthly expenses while operating at a significant deficit of $6,000 each month. Organizers revealed they have only around three months of operating costs in reserve and are appealing to the community to help raise $300,000 by year-end.
According to recent reports from Mission Local, nearly 80 percent of users access the space for free, which has made it a crucial resource for makers and artists in San Francisco. To combat the financial strain, the collective has launched a GoFundMe campaign, currently raising about $13,945, with a bridge goal set at $50,000. A matching pledge will double donations up to $76,500, emphasizing the community’s potential impact on the hackerspace’s survival.
The financial shortfall stems from increased costs following Noisebridge’s relocation to a two-story facility at 272 Capp Street in 2020. It was discovered that the building had not been properly permitted, leading to nearly $60,000 in necessary permits and upgrades. Adding to the strain, a decline in recurring donations occurred in the wake of tech layoffs and a temporary closure of the woodshop for renovations.
In response, volunteers have organized a series of fundraising events, including a “Sweet 16” party, silent auctions, and classes, designed to convert one-time donations into ongoing support. Fundraising details, including sliding-scale ticket options and membership drives, are available on the group’s event platform, Givebutter.
Noisebridge’s ethos—“already a member” means anyone can use the space for free—has fostered a sense of community and collaboration that many fear will be lost if funding does not materialize soon. The future of this unique space now heavily depends on converting community goodwill into sustainable financial support or attracting larger donors to meet the rising costs.
As the clock ticks down, community members and supporters are urged to contribute to the GoFundMe campaign and participate in upcoming fundraising events to help keep Noisebridge operational. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated: the hackerspace’s fate hangs in the balance, and immediate action is needed to secure its future.
For more information on how to help, visit the Noisebridge fundraising page or their GoFundMe.
