Concarneau – In Concarneau, how the Konk ar Lab has become a must in 5 years

Since its creation on March 1, 2017, Konk ar Lab, the bay fablab based in Kerandon, has come a long way. “We have become a real third place, open to residents so that they can come and carry out small or large-scale projects”, rejoices Olivier Audet, director of Konk ar Lab. The latter recalls that the structure was created precisely “to meet needs identified in the territory”. Creating, inventing, repairing, transforming, collaborating… Today, the place offers many actions related to the challenges of digital access.

Protective visors made during the health crisis, Kosmos camera, hand prosthesis… In a few years, beautiful projects have emerged in the fablab workshops. Konk ar Lab is also an active participation in several events such as the 48 hours of urban agriculture or the last Artificial Intelligence Forum. Less visible but just as important, many workshops and training courses open to the public are also offered by the structure. Finally, the managers are pleased to have forged strong partnerships with all the local actors, both institutional and private sector.

After half a decade of experimenting and growing, the fablab is taking shape. In order to better identify the various activities offered, the members have set up four distinct poles: the digital pole to support residents in computer use; the fablab and third place center bringing together the sharing and DIY workshops as well as the project incubator; the ocean center dedicated to marine science projects; the youth center bringing together activities and partnerships related to young audiences.

While there were only about ten at the start of the adventure, the association now has six employees, “around forty active volunteers and more than 300 members”, means Patrice Lelgouarch, president of Konk ar Lab. . On the financial side, “we are in balance”, assures the latter. The members are nevertheless considering finding “a viable long-term economic model. Because the objective is not to live only on subsidies”, underlines the president. “We want to see how we can support companies in the region, or organize team building sessions for employees. We also want to incubate micro-enterprises that stick to our values,” adds Olivier Audet.

Having reached a “cruising speed”, the Konk ar Lab is now seeking to “consolidate its structure”. With one goal in sight: moving the premises to the Quassias tower, currently being renovated, around 2024. our issues. Because the purpose is to be ready before going to these new premises,” concludes the director.