For over 13 years, Decatur Makers has grown because of an incredible community of members, volunteers, instructors, donors, and supporters who believe in creativity, lifelong learning, and sharing knowledge.As our community continues to grow and facility costs evolve, this updated membership structure is designed to strengthen the long-term sustainability and growth of Decatur Makers while preserving the welcoming, accessible community that makes this place special.

We believe it's important to plan ahead rather than wait until larger challenges require sudden or significant changes.Our facility costs have already begun to increase, and we know the long-term cost of operating our makerspace will continue to evolve. Updating our membership structure now allows us to strengthen our financial foundation while continuing to invest in our members, equipment, programs, and community.

No. Decatur Makers is financially healthy.This change is about long-term sustainability and growth, not responding to a financial crisis. We want to ensure our membership structure better reflects the true cost of operating a thriving community makerspace while continuing to keep membership as affordable as possible.

Your membership helps support:Equipment maintenance and repairsFacility expenses, including rent, utilities, and insuranceVolunteer leadership programsYouth STEAM educationCommunity outreachNew tools and equipmentEven with these updates, membership dues are expected to cover only about 65% of our annual operating budget. Grants, donations, sponsorships, classes, fundraising, and other earned revenue continue to support the remaining costs.