Collaboratory is leading the way in the revitalization of Midtown section of the Downtown redevelopment area. It features state-of-the-art technology housed in an architecturally-distinctive, energy-efficient space. 

As Southwest Florida’s first public sphere, Collaboratory is where people from different backgrounds, interests and areas of expertise come together to exchange ideas—whether meeting locally in person, or virtually worldwide through the ultra-high-speed Florida Lambda Rail network. Collaboratory offers meeting and tenant spaces, social gathering and special events venues. The Southwest Florida Community Foundation partnered with the City of Fort Myers and the CRA to remake the former 1924 Atlantic Coast Line historic train station into a state-of-the-art facility and expand the original structure with a 12,000 sq. ft. new addition. The CRA pledged a subsidy of $100,000 annually for 5 years for improvements to the former Depot building, with the City of Fort Myers matching the CRA’s funds. It opened in September 2021.