Philadelphia Mini Maker Faire [event recap]

On Sunday, June 24th, over 100 makers and 1,200 visitors came together at Pennovation for the first ever Philadelphia Mini Maker Faire. With exhibitors from NextFab, Pennovation, UPenn, and more, the Philadelphia Mini Maker Faire was a volunteer-organized, family-friendly celebration featuring local do-it-yourself science, art, robots, crafts, tech, music, hands-on-activities, and more. It was an event where people could show what they are making and share what they are learning. The Philadelphia Mini Maker Faire was a chance to highlight the recent resurgence of Making within the Philly's tech, startup, and artistic communities, and for local Makers to connect with each; to connect the city’s manufacturers, artisans, innovators, and inventors with the resources they need to turn their startups and physical products into successful businesses. It is with this goal in mind that the organizers teamed up with Pennovation Center to host the event. The Center already serves as a hub for innovation in the region, thanks to its research spaces and collaborative atmosphere. The Center, along with the Faire, represents a shift in Philly’s potential as a destination space for Makers.