From a business plan that was shelved for just the right moment to book shelves that brightened and enlightened our community, Urban ReThink’s roots are in transformative pursuits.
For nearly a decade, Urban Think! was Orlando’s only independent bookstore--a hub for our region's literary community. Urban ReThink will continue to attract and inspire literary luminaries.
In 2003, Urban ReThink’s Founding Director, Darren McDaniel, created a business plan for CCOMO: the Creative Consortium of Metro Orlando. The idea: Orlando’s a city built on creativity. Rather than trying to be the next Hollywood, why not be the first Orlando? CCOMO called for uniting creatives of every variety in a hub for them to gather, collaborate, showcase, and find inspiration. Much of the research for CCOMO was revisited for the Urban ReThink model.
Urban ReThink proceeds support the nonprofit Urban Think! Foundation’s programs, including the acclaimed children’s literacy program, Page 15. The foundation supports educational programs, fosters community spirit, and facilitates creative opportunities for the Orlando community.
Freelance creative professionals are working in non traditional workspaces. Urban ReThink's structure reflects our community and our nation's emerging coworking trends.
As we begin a new chapter in Orlando's creative history, our stories come from those who realize Orlando's creative future.