Today we’d like to introduce you to Cyril Thomas.
Cyril, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Working for years as an entrepreneur/small business owner, I often felt I was stranded on an island. I was busy trying to both run and grow my business and often didn’t know where to turn to find answers to questions that popped up on a daily basis.
Questions regarding varied topics from human resources to marketing to finance. I would spend countless hours researching and trying to find the answer. At the same time, I had also begun to outgrow my home office. I had one employee and myself running in and out of my house. This was an intrusion to my private space and became tiresome.
I knew I needed a more professional atmosphere and image. I began to look at what was available and there was nothing that fit my needs or budget. The smallest space I could find was 1,200 square feet and would cost close to $2,500 a month and that was not in the most desirable part of town. The space was too big and too expensive. I eventually found something that would work but not exactly meet my needs.
I realized that I was probably not the only small business owner with these issues. I was doing some traveling at that time also and would find co-working spaces in cities like Baltimore, Chicago, and San Francisco where I could go and work on an as-needed basis. The spaces provided an ecosystem for like-minded individuals who could collaborate and be a resource to each other. I began dreaming of a space that would be a resource for entrepreneurs and The Hive Katy was born.
I created a space that would meet the various needs of small business owners – anything they needed to help them grow their business. This included services from a virtual (professional) mailbox, telephone services with a live receptionist, co-working space, affordable and flexible office suites ranging from 80 square feet to 600 square feet, collaboration and mentorship and seminars and classes that focus on business growth.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The challenge has been marketing to entrepreneurs to let them now that we exist as a resource….often they are busy, beyond busy just trying to stay afloat and keep up with day to day operations….again stranded on an island.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into The Hive Katy story. Tell us more about the business.
The Hive Katy (THK) combines flexibility, convenience, and affordability with a modern approach to space solutions for all businesses. With options ranging from furnished executive suites to memberships in the coworking space, we have a way for any company to operate out of a professional building with all the amenities at a fraction of the price. Built by a small business owner, THK’s mission is to encourage an entrepreneurial spirit in the Katy area by providing not only space but also educational resources and networking functions to foster a sense of partnership with our clients.
By aligning ourselves with other professionals outside of our four walls we are set to bring in a wealth of perspective, experience, and insight that is shared at any one of our Business Growth enrichment seminars. We want all our businesses to have the opportunity to succeed, and take great pride in being a part of their story. Like honey bees utilize the beehive for shelter, sustenance, socialization, and continued success in completing their purpose; If your company is looking for a home that will provide more than just walls and a door, look no further than The Hive Katy. Our passion is providing an environment rich with the tools that create successful and prolific professionals.
At The Hive, we are looking to engage professionals at any level and meet the needs of their company. We can provide affordable options in three main focus areas, and combine services to truly personalize each package to the individual/company. We also bring free and low-cost educational presentations to the Katy area in an attempt to engage small businesses and entrepreneurs- even if they aren’t members of The Hive.
Executive Suites: These are private office spaces available throughout the first and second floor of the building. First floor spaces are fully furnished, suitable for 1-3 people/desks, and are “all bills paid”- meaning THK includes all the utility charges, from the electricity to the phones and internet. Second-floor spaces are also all inclusive but do not include furniture. The rental rates for each space are listed in the leasing pamphlets. Executive Suites are ideal spaces for established businesses or professionals that already have a steady income or clientele.
Coworking Memberships: This option is ideal for the business person who is either just starting out, or has an operation small enough to not require a traditional office. Perfect for people who are “mobile” and often find themselves working out of their vehicles or coffee shops. The coworking space is a shared-desk environment that encourages collaboration as well as independent productivity. Memberships are available for as little as $75 per month.
Virtual Services: These services are for professionals that are looking to augment their “mobile” business. We can provide a mailing address for correspondence, a virtual receptionist to assist with incoming phone business as well as a professional voicemail set up. We can also add conference/meeting room rental time onto either of the other services to suit each client as needed.
Educational Resources: The Hive is proud to have relationships with many area business professionals that donate time and experience to The Business Growth Series. Each topic is selected with our audience in mind and we cover a wide range of information that is pertinent to professionals and small business owners. Almost all of our seminars are free to the public. Our main focus with these is to meet people and encourage traffic through the building, as well as providing a service that can assist in the growth of businesses in the Katy area.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
There is no luck……networking, hard work and perseverance, seeing it through to the end.
Pricing:
- Virtual mail services – $45/month; Live reception and phone services – $129/month
- Coworking memberships starting at $99/month
- Office space starting – starting $499/month
Contact Info:
- Address: 535 E. Fernhurst, Katy TX 77450
25807 Westheimer Parkway, 3rd floor, Katy, TX 77450 - Website: www.TheHiveKaty.com
- Phone: 281-849-4130
- Email: info@thehivekaty.com
Business people sitting and discussing at business meeting
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