By Jessica Nguyen
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur hoping to launch your dream shop in Downtown Stockton, a current business owner in need of a workspace, or looking for the perfect space to hold your next program or event, Via Ventures can help you do just that! One of downtown’s most recent additions, Via Ventures is a coworking office and community event space dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment for all members and visitors. To learn more about Via’s vision and services, we spoke with Jasmine Leek, Co-Founder and CEO of Via Ventures.
How Did Via Ventures Start?
Jasmine Leek, a Stockton native, has always been very involved in the revitalization of the downtown community. The former Executive Director of the Huddle Cowork and founder of the Third City Coalition, Jasmine continued her passion for uplifting the community by working together with co-founder Leonel Castillo to bring Via Ventures to life. Jasmine and Leonel envisioned a community space, “where you can come to explore ideas,” that also addressed the holistic needs of entrepreneurs. Thus, Via Ventures isn’t just a physical space, but also a welcoming atmosphere that fosters community connections and provides tools to help members’ reach their community-based goals and dreams (and of course, the office is equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi!). Curious to know how Via got its name? Jasmine explains that the letters represent Values and Envision, Ideas and Initiatives, and Assets and Action, respectively.
Interested in Becoming a Member?
Via Ventures offers several services and memberships (community and coworking memberships), each with unique offers and opportunities. There are even concierge services, which their website states can, “help you tackle life with personal task and referral services.” Via is armed with passionate and knowledgable staff who can answer your questions and help you design and launch your ideas. Additionally, the flexible space is available to rent for events. Its bright, airy, and modern-styled interior is the perfect setting for seminars, business meetings, workshops, or anything in between. Sound too good to be true? Come see the space for yourself! Your first visit to Via Ventures is completely free and you can get all your questions answered by any of Via’s team members who will be more than happy to assist you.
On March 20th (which also happens to be the International Day of Happiness and first day of spring!), Via Ventures is hosting a formal launch event. The event is open to the public, and they’d love to see you there!
Why Downtown?
Via Ventures is located right next to downtown’s beloved Trail Coffee Roasters, who they have a great working relationship with. After all, like Jasmine says, “good coffee and coworking go together!” She also reveals that Downtown Stockton was prioritized in discussions concerning Via’s location, as the area provides a, “great opportunity to make your mark!” Although Jasmine shares that they would eventually like to expand to more locations, Downtown Stockton will always be Via’s original home.
Quick Three with Jasmine!
Favorite Lunch Spot and Coffee Shop?
Xochimilco Café for lunch, and of course, Trail Coffee for coffee! (She gives high praise to the Golden Milk — now I’ve gotta try it!)
Describe Downtown in One Word:
“Blooming.”
What is Downtown Stockton’s Spirit Animal?
Jasmine and Leonel both agree on a Phoenix, because of its, “spirit of renewal and resilience, but also because of its symbolism of balancing light and darkness.”
To learn more about Via Ventures, visit their website at: yourvia.co.