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Kerala has launched its first neurodiversity-friendly co-working hub at the Ernakulam South Metro Station in Kochi. Spanning approximately 48,000 square feet, the facility accommodates over 550 professionals and offers high-speed internet, dedicated meeting rooms, office pods, a cafeteria, and round-the-clock security. Designed around the globally recognised 'Spectra' model, the workspace aims to support neurodivergent individuals. The initiative, led by the state government and Infopark, is intended to attract startups, freelancers, and global capability centres, with plans to replicate the model at other transit locations.
The Kerala government, in collaboration with Infopark, unveiled a neurodiversity-supportive co-working space earlier this week at Kochi's Ernakulam South Metro Station. This facility, named i by Infopark, covers around 48,000 square feet and has been developed to house more than 550 professionals. It is intended to provide a highly adaptable, transit-oriented workspace that encourages inclusion and accessibility. Advertisement
The project is based on the internationally recognised 'Spectra' model, which focuses on creating environments tailored to neurodivergent individuals. These include people with conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and Tourette syndrome. Each floor in the building has been designed to ensure sensory comfort, with lighting, acoustics, and layout optimised to enhance concentration and reduce anxiety.
The co-working space offers key amenities such as high-speed internet, 100 percent power backup, a professional reception area, multiple meeting rooms, office pods, a cafeteria, and comprehensive security services. The rental model is designed to be flexible, allowing startups and global firms to scale their occupancy as required, without long-term commitments.
The facility targets gig workers, freelancers, startups, and companies looking to set up global capability centres in Kerala. The state administration indicated that the success of this initiative would shape the future of similar co-working hubs at other metro and transport locations throughout Kerala. Officials highlighted that the location within a metro station was chosen to improve accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges while integrating workplace solutions into daily public transport routes.
By focusing on neurodivergent individuals and transit-integrated locations, the initiative supports a broader vision of accessibility and equitable participation in the modern economy. As the model gains traction, Kerala is expected to extend this approach across its urban infrastructure, creating a network of inclusive hubs that promote diversity, innovation, and regional growth within the co-working and startup ecosystem.
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