The Riveter

About The Riveter

The Riveter, initially a prominent operator of female-focused coworking spaces, has strategically pivoted its business model to an entirely digital platform. Founded in July 2017 by former attorney Amy Nelson and social worker Kim Peltola, the company was established to support women in the workplace through community, resources, and physical office spaces. Nelson, a graduate of Emory University and the NYU School of Law, practiced corporate litigation for over a decade and was involved in political fundraising for President Obama's campaign before launching The Riveter. The inspiration for the company stemmed from Nelson's own experiences and the realization that a significant percentage of professional women leave their careers after having children, highlighting a need for supportive professional networks and flexible work environments.

Named after the iconic "Rosie the Riveter," the company initially focused on establishing a national network of inclusive, professional coworking spaces designed with women's needs in mind, such as quiet rooms and mothers' rooms. It demonstrated significant growth, raising $4.75 million in seed funding and $15 million in a Series A round in 2018. By late 2019, The Riveter had expanded to nine locations across the U.S. and even acquired a Denver-based coworking business, Women in Kind. Even before ceasing physical operations, a large portion of its membership base did not use the coworking locations, with less than half of the company's revenue coming from rent fees.

In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, The Riveter closed all its physical locations and transitioned its focus to its online community. This digital platform provides members with networking opportunities, access to industry leaders, career advice, and virtual events. The shift allowed the company to continue its mission of creating change for working women by providing resources and fostering a community online. The platform addresses topics such as remote work, job searching after layoffs, and offers support for its members' professional and personal development.