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Cowork Funchal — Where Island Living Meets Coworking

In this episode of Around the World in 250 Coworking Spaces, Pauline takes us to Cowork Funchal in Madeira, Portugal, for a conversation with founder Andre Loa about how the space has grown and adapted over more than a decade.

Key highlights

  • One of Portugal’s first coworking spaces — Founded in 2010, before “coworking” was a household word.
  • Prime location — A colorful courtyard and a central Funchal address make it a lively meeting spot.
  • Island transformation — Once a destination for older, slower-paced tourism, Madeira is now attracting younger travelers, remote workers, and digital nomads.
  • Community mix — A blend of locals and international members, with flexible coworking allowing work from anywhere in the building (or outside in the courtyard).
  • Events & social life — From courtyard gatherings and bar meetups to conference space rentals, the community stays connected and engaged.
  • Pandemic resilience — Despite challenges, the island’s good handling of COVID-19 allowed the space to reopen early and attract new members.

Cowork Funchal shows that coworking is not just about desks — it’s about lifestyle. Here, work blends seamlessly with island life, creating a unique experience for locals and nomads alike.

Follow along for more coworking stories from the global series.