Community Hub in Saugeen Shores: Powerlink's Momentum
- Chris Herbert
- Sep 30
- 3 min read

Powerlink’s Momentum: More Tenants, More Community
A Conversation with Andrew Hill
This fall, Powerlink feels different. The hum of new tenants, the buzz of community events, and the quiet productivity of coworking members are blending into something bigger.
For Andrew Hill, it’s the payoff after years of building piece by piece.
“All the pieces are starting to come together,” Hill says. “We’re nearly full, the building is buzzing, and people finally see the vision—Powerlink isn’t just office space. It’s a platform for connection, creativity, and growth.”
A Diverse Mix Under One Roof
In the past month alone, Powerlink has welcomed new businesses ranging from AI engineers to therapists.
NPX, a fast-growing engineering firm, took prime space after a sudden move. STEMVOX, a youth program mentoring grade-school students in science, technology, and AI, now shares a hallway with professional AI developers.
On the wellness side, Powerlink’s “mini medical centre” has taken shape with a chiropractor, osteopath, podiatrist, and now seven therapists working different days of the week.
“That kind of diversity sparks connections you wouldn’t normally have,” Hill explains. “It’s medical, tech, education, and wellness all in one building—and that energy feeds off itself.”
Loft 1020: The Top-Floor Advantage
The crown jewel is Loft 1020, Powerlink’s ~6,000 sq. ft. top floor.
With soaring views, flexible layouts, and built-in amenities, it’s become both a premium coworking area and a destination for events.
Powerlink is now fully licensed, able to host gatherings of up to 250 people.
From corporate meetings to Rotary fundraisers, intimate concerts to holiday socials, Loft 1020 offers a professional yet inviting alternative to hotel conference rooms.
“We wanted a space that could handle anything—from a brainstorming session at 3 a.m. to a community auction with live music,” says Hill. “And now we can.”
Comfort, Connection, and Remote Work
A growing number of members are discovering something they didn’t realize they were missing: connection.
“People thought working from home was going to be great,” Hill says. “But after a while, they lose that spark. They sit alone in front of a screen all day, and their home becomes their job. It sucks.”
That’s why Powerlink’s design emphasizes comfort and a sense of home. Many offices have couches, bookshelves, and plants, while shared spaces are intentionally “homey” rather than sterile.
The goal is to offer the comfort of working from home—without the isolation.
“It’s not just about networking,” Hill explains. “It’s about having activity around you, people to talk to, and an environment that feels welcoming. That’s what keeps people engaged and creative.”
Built for Today’s Workforce
Coworking memberships continue to grow, with options for every style: hot desks for drop-ins, dedicated desks for regulars, and 24/7 access for night owls.
Behind it all is infrastructure that rivals major city offices. Fiber optics deliver high-speed internet, and several tenants already subscribe to full-gigabit bandwidth.
For companies needing secure, reliable connectivity, Powerlink has become the clear choice.
Events That Bring People Together
Community programming is now a monthly fixture. A recent Pizza & Puzzles night raised $200 for Rotary.
Up next: the Spooky Social on October 23, featuring themed drinks, pumpkin carving, and costumes.
“We want people to have fun, support local causes, and do it all affordably,” Hill says. “Two people should be able to enjoy a full evening here—food, drinks, entertainment—for under $100. That’s the goal.”
The Road Ahead
Powerlink is nearly at capacity, with just two windowed offices and a handful of interior spaces left.
Hill is confident the building will be fully leased by the end of 2025—earlier than planned.
The next challenge? Education. Many locals still ask what “coworking” means. For Hill, it’s about showing them firsthand that coworking is affordable, flexible, and community-driven.
“We’re not just filling offices,” he says. “We’re creating a hub where businesses, professionals, and community members all cross paths. That’s what makes Powerlink different.”
Powerlink Is For…
Companies who want flexibility to scale their office space, culture, and events.
Charities and non-profits who need professional, affordable venues for meetings and fundraisers.
Entrepreneurs who want both a local hub and a connection into AREA 81’s regional network.
Community members who simply want to enjoy a great night out, whether it’s puzzles, pizza, or live music.
Looking Ahead
Hill is clear about the vision: Powerlink is no longer just an office building. It’s a platform for business, community, and culture in Saugeen Shores.
“I’m building the kind of experiences I’d want myself,” he says. “People want to get out, connect, and do something meaningful. We’re making sure Powerlink is the place where that happens. And with AREA 81, those connections don’t stop at our doors—they extend across the region.”
Call to Action
Curious about how Powerlink and AREA 81 can work for you?
Book a tour of Powerlink
Book your event in Powerlink's Loft 1020
Explore coworking memberships,
Or join the AREA 81 peer network for entrepreneurs.




















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