Nerd Values and Small Business

Interesting discussion on the coworking Google group (registration required) about whether or not coworking spaces should be for profit or non-profit.  The consensus of the group is that it doesn't really matter as long as the facility works. 

One of the interesting points discussed was "nerd values".  Key quote from group member Tara Hunt:

"Nerd values means..."Doing well by doing good." We don't think of ourselves as do-gooders or altruists. It's just that somehow we're trying our best to be run with some sense of moral compass even in a business environment that is growing."

Tara also points to an article where Craigslist founder Craig Newmark discusses nerd values. 

A theme that runs through our research is that values and life balance issues are extremely important to many entrepreneurs and small business owners - and a key reason they've chosen small business careers and entrepreneurship. I think Hunt's quote is a good one, and describes a much broader group of people than just nerds.

For more on coworking see this Business Week article or the coworking wiki.