The Origin of GCUC
Back in 2011, during the buzzing energy of Austin’s SXSW festival, a bold idea took root. Liz Elam saw the need for a dedicated gathering where the coworking movement could unite—where ideas could be exchanged, innovations sparked, and a global community formed. That vision became GCUC (Global Coworking Unconference Conference), the first event of its kind focused entirely on the future of coworking and flexible workspace.
What started as a single gathering quickly grew into a global phenomenon.
Since that inaugural event, GCUC has hosted over 45 conferences around the world—including in China, Australia, across APAC, South America, Taiwan, and Canada—connecting more than 20,000 people and igniting countless “a-ha” moments for coworking and flexible workspace operators, landlords, developers, and workplace visionaries.
Today, GCUC proudly hosts annual flagship events in the U.S. every spring and in London each fall, continuing our tradition of convening the industry’s most innovative thinkers and community builders.
Now a cornerstone of the industry, GCUC sits at the intersection of coworking and flexible workspace, real estate, technology, wellness, and the future of work. Whether online or in person, we continue to champion community, innovation, and connection in everything we do.
Our Why
At GCUC, we exist to redefine the future of work by promoting collaboration over competition. We believe deeply in the power of connection—to spark creativity, support well-being, and foster growth.
Our conferences are designed to give coworking and flexible workspace operators access to the tools, partners, and insights they need to grow and thrive. Through immersive programming, peer exchange, and thoughtfully curated experiences, GCUC supports the full spectrum of what it means to lead a successful, community-centered business.
We also recognize that work doesn’t happen in a vacuum. That’s why we champion mental health, innovation, and the fight against the loneliness epidemic—modeling the kind of connection and community we hope our attendees cultivate in their own spaces.
At GCUC, you’ll find inspiration, best practices, and the resources you need to stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of work.