In our previous post, What Innovators Should Ask Before Signing a Wet Lab Lease (That No One Tells You), we explored the high-stakes decision of committing to a wet lab space, from infrastructure fit to hidden costs. But once you’ve done your due diligence on the front-end terms of a residency agreement, the next big step is understanding how the space will actually support your operations, team, and long-term growth.
For life sciences startups graduating from incubators or accelerators, choosing a coworking wet lab is one of the most impactful early decisions you’ll make. The following operational questions can help you select a facility that not only meets your technical needs but also enables you to scale smartly.
Traditional commercial leases are designed for long-term, fixed commitments—with limited flexibility, high overhead costs, and often, limited support. For early-stage biotech founders, this can create more risk than reward.
By contrast, a residency agreement, the standard model in most coworking wet labs, offers a more flexible, startup-friendly approach. Here's why:
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Shorter commitments: Month-to-month or 6–12 month terms that align with startup timelines.
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Lower upfront costs: No need for heavy deposits, leasehold improvements, or long-term liabilities.
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All-inclusive pricing: Access to infrastructure, shared equipment, and operational support bundled into one agreement.
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Scalable options: The ability to increase or decrease space as your company evolves.
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Community and services: A built-in ecosystem with shared services, compliance support, and collaboration opportunities
Choosing the right coworking wet lab space isn't just about finding a location with the necessary infrastructure; it's about selecting an environment that aligns with your scientific goals, operational needs, and growth trajectory. Here are 5 key operational questions to guide your decision-making process:
1. Does the Lab Space Support Your Specific Research Needs?
Not all wet lab spaces are created equal. It's crucial to assess whether the facility can accommodate your specific research activities. Consider the following:
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Specialized Equipment: Does the lab provide access to the specialized equipment necessary for your research?
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Infrastructure Compatibility: Are the lab's utilities (e.g., gas lines, water systems) compatible with your experimental requirements?
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Safety and Compliance: Does the lab meet the safety standards and regulatory requirements pertinent to your research activities?
Ensuring that the lab can support your specific needs will prevent costly modifications and potential delays in your research.
2. What Operational Support Services Are Included?
One major benefit of a coworking wet lab is the support that allows founders to offload day-to-day facility management. Consider asking:
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Is technical support or a lab manager available onsite?
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How are hazardous and biological waste handled?
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Are administrative services such as purchasing programs, equipment maintenance, and compliance services included?
The more services bundled into the residency, the more time your team can devote to experiments and milestones instead of facility management.
3. How Does the Lab Foster Collaboration and Networking Opportunities?
A collaborative environment can accelerate innovation and provide valuable insights. Consider asking the following:
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Community Engagement: Does the lab host events, seminars, or networking sessions that encourage interaction among researchers?
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Collaborative Spaces: Are there designated areas that facilitate teamwork and idea exchange?
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Partnership Opportunities: Does the lab have connections with industry partners, investors, or academic institutions that could benefit your research?
A lab that promotes collaboration can lead to new partnerships, shared resources, and enhanced research outcomes.
4. What Are the Terms for Scaling Your Space as Your Research Expands?
As your research progresses, your spatial needs may change. It's essential to understand the flexibility of the residency agreement:
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Expansion Options: Is there the possibility to expand your lab area as your team grows or research requirements increase?
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Agreement Flexibility: Can your residency agreement be adjusted to accommodate changes in your research scope or funding?
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Exit Strategy: What are the terms if you need to downsize or relocate?
A lab that offers scalability ensures that your research can evolve without being hindered by spatial constraints.
5. How Does the Lab's Location Align with Your Operational Needs?
The location of your lab can significantly impact your operations:
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Proximity to Talent: Is the lab situated near academic institutions or research centers that can provide access to skilled personnel?
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Accessibility and Proximity to Transit: Is the space accessible to your team via transit or commuting routes?
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Supply Chain Considerations: Is the lab accessible to suppliers and service providers essential for your research?
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Proximity to Innovation, Institutions, and Oversight: Is the lab located within a biotech cluster with proximity to hospitals, universities, or regulators that can oversee your research activities?
Being close to collaborators, talent, and infrastructure can reduce time-to-milestone and strengthen your company’s ecosystem.
From Questions to Solutions: Where to Go Next
If you're currently exploring lab spaces in Canada, SPEC Labs offers coworking wet labs purpose-built for startups graduating from incubators and accelerators. Our facilities provide turnkey wet lab infrastructure, flexible terms, and a collaborative environment designed to help life sciences innovators scale efficiently.
To learn more, visit SPEC Labs Resources & Knowledge Center for guides and insights or reach out to discuss how our model might fit your unique needs.