On 20 May 2015, LabForRent launched an online marketplace for supply and demand of laboratory spaces. They are capitalising on an increasingly growing problem: the current overcapacity of lab spaces and the lack of initiatives that bring the lessor and lessee in contact with each other.
Many lab facilities are currently vacant while start-ups and expanding companies – both in the Netherlands and abroad – are looking for suitable lab space and related R&D infrastructure. So far there has not been a ‘market place’ that brings together the supply and demand in this sector. This means that companies that are looking for lab space may settle in clearly suboptimal environments which may hamper their further growth.
LabForRent wants to both tackle empty-standing laboratory spaces and provide optimal R&D environments. Its recently launched online platform www.LabForRent.nl stimulates the use and sharing of laboratory spaces, collaboration and joining of innovative forces. On the LabForRent platform, companies looking for laboratory space can find a relevant overview of available laboratories, facilities and supporting services for temporary or long-term use.
Jeroen de Kempenaer, Philips Innovation Service:
“What a beautiful iniative! Also here ‘use’ instead of 'ownership'. I am sure that this is a valuable pay-off to both suppliers and users.”
Pivot Park is one of the first that offer their services on LabForRent. Pivot Park provides an optimal infrastructure, state-of-the-art facilities and a wealth of knowledge and experience. The labs are fully furnished and equipped with modern technology, so entrepreneurs can start up turn-key thanks to flexibility and customisation. The attractive and extensive start-up package, ranging from simple glassware to high-tech equipment helps launching your company. Pivot Park FlexLab offers ready-to-go laboratory space from one day rental. Mirjam Mol-Arts, CEO Pivot Park:
"Lab for Rent is a unique platform to bring supply and demand of life sciences laboratory facilities together. A great initiative to facilitate and encourage innovation in the Netherlands. "
Based on the current results, LabForRent foresees a rapid growth in the offer for space in the Life Sciences and related sectors. The founders dr. Maarten van Dongen and Arthur Tutein Nolthenius, MSc expect an expansion for LabForRent to European countries, such as Germany, Belgium, France and the UK.