Liz Elam is internationally recognized as a trailblazer in the coworking movement, seamlessly blending collaboration, innovation, and an unwavering dedication to excellence. A natural entrepreneur, Liz founded Link Coworking in Austin, Texas, in 2010. Over nearly a decade, she expanded it to three locations, establishing it as the fourth-largest coworking brand in Austin before its notable sale in 2019. This landmark achievement made her the first woman globally to successfully exit a coworking brand.
In 2011, Liz further cemented her influence on the industry by founding the Global Coworking Unconference Community (GCUC), now the world’s largest coworking conference. Under her leadership, GCUC has grown into a global hub for the workspace industry, with events across the U.S., South America, China, Canada, the UK, Australia, and beyond. It has become a platform where coworking operators, designers, and industry leaders come together to share insights, innovations, and best practices.
Liz’s forward-thinking approach extends beyond coworking. Recently earning a graduate certificate in foresight from the University of Houston, she deepened her understanding of forecasting methodologies, further fueling her passion for shaping better societal outcomes. Her expertise positions her as a sought-after consultant and speaker on the future of work and workplace trends.
In 2023, Liz partnered with Derek Lutz to launch Bottle Rocket Search, the first headhunting firm dedicated exclusively to the coworking and flexible workspace industry. This new venture reflects her ongoing commitment to fostering growth and innovation within the industry. Liz also shares her insights and expertise through the GCUC Podcast, released bi-weekly, where she dives into the latest coworking trends and interviews industry leaders.
As a passionate advocate for sound business practices and innovation in the coworking industry, Liz consistently challenges operators and workspace brands to reimagine their potential. Her mission to combat the loneliness epidemic through coworking and community-building resonates deeply with both operators and members, solidifying her role as a key architect of the hospitality-focused workspace of the future.