Business Type Arts, Entertainment and Recreation

Location Ripon, Wisconsin

Population  7,733

Website

https://www.ripon.edu/314-ripon-college-project-space/

Products Sold & Niche Developed

314: Ripon College Project Space is a multi-use venue for art exhibits, concerts, poetry readings, lectures, performances, speakers, classes, community events, and more.

How it got started

Zach Messitte, the president of Ripon College, conceived of this space as a way for the college to develop a greater presence in downtown Ripon. He reached out to the three faculty advisors, who found the space, contacted student leadership, and oversaw the space’s opening.

Who it serves

College and community members alike are invited to submit their ideas for using this dynamic new space. Upon approval, use of the space is completely free.

Building Improvements

The space is located at 314 Watson St. in a reclaimed building beautifully restored by downtown manager and owner Craig Tebon after a devastating fire in December of 2013 that destroyed one building, severely damaged two others, and displaced many residents.

Funding

314 is made possible in large part by a grant from the Kemper Foundation.

Reviewed by Emily Lutz, UW-Extension CCED