Monday Feb 6 was the next ASC (#6), and the event was over the top in a number of ways. Previously, the highest level of grant was $500-$600 (with an upper limit of $1,000 if enough judges participated); this time extra funds from corporate groups raised it to $3,500. As well, the judging was two-phased; the initial ten (of which eight actually appeared) were winnowed down to a top three on Monday, and on Thursday the final three make a second pitch for winning.

Our pitch was for Makerspace to move into town. Currently, we’re north in Saanich, a fairly steep trip for those of us not inclined to drive. Moving into town accomplishes several things: closer access makes it likely more will join; it is better poised to help incubate business ideas (like the Braille display); and we’ll finally become the ‘Victoria’ Makerspace, instead of ‘Victoria-Adjacent’!

For the presentation, I was asked to be an assistant. Besides showcasing the various items that could be made at the Makerspace, I also was able to discuss my Braille project briefly, and how Makerspace made it possible to move ahead with it.

Fortunately, our group made it into the top three – now, we pitch again on Thursday, and try to solidify the case for Makerspace moving. Hopefully, it will convince everyone, and we’ll be on the move shortly. But even if not, the other finalists are all good causes – and after all, what’s a little bus trip now and then?