General Information

1. What is the Mason Enterprise Center Fairfax (MEC Fairfax)?
MEC Fairfax is the largest university-based business incubator in Virginia. We offer polished, professional office space, our own MEC Mentors, MEC Partners, access to growth resources, and connections to George Mason University for startups and growing businesses.

2. Who can join MEC Fairfax?

Companies at any stage are welcome. We’re looking for people who want to join a community of entrepreneurs, engage with our resources and other members, and to build their company while helping us foster the culture of the MEC program. Membership is open to:

• Startups: Typically, startups with initial funding or market traction and early revenues. 

• Growth-stage firms: Established, accelerating businesses looking to expand, including government contracting, joint ventures, and collaborations

• Mature companies: The same resources available to startups and growth companies can help mature firms pivot, enter new markets, or recast strategy and operations to rejuvenate their organizations

• Government Contractors: Many of our members are or will become government contractors. We understand your needs and offer resources to help you find success as a contractor to federal, state, and local agencies.

• Soft Landings: International firms of any size can land their first US office at MEC Fairfax and immediately plug into our resources and our ecosystem. We’ll help get your team established quickly in an outstanding location in the National Capital Region, supported by our partners at Fairfax City Economic Development. Also, for US firms new to Virginia.

• Research commercialization: Faculty from George Mason University and regional universities looking to commercialize research or technology innovations may be eligible for a targeted program to jump-start their venture at MEC Fairfax

• Solo Entrepreneurs and Small Teams: The center supports single founders as well as small teams in need of professional office solutions and access to growth resources.

• Service Providers: Businesses in consulting, marketing, technology, and professional services are eligible to join.

3. Where is MEC Fairfax located?

Visit us at 10300 Eaton Place, Suite 440, Fairfax, Virginia. We’re centrally located in Northern Virginia, just off I-66. 

Membership & Application

4. How do I apply to join MEC Fairfax?
Visit our website at mec-fairfax.org. On the Contact page, follow the Apply button and share information about your company.

5. What are the membership requirements?

Applicants should demonstrate a need for MEC services and resources, be open to mentorship, and comply with center policies. Decisions are based on mutual fit and business readiness.

6. Is there an application deadline?

Applications are accepted year-round. Office availability may fluctuate, so early application is recommended.

Facilities & Services

7. What types of office spaces are available?
MEC Fairfax offers private offices and coworking settings, including hot desks and dedicated desks, all fully furnished and with flexible use.

8. What amenities are included for members?

Amenities include high-speed internet, mail services, receptionist support, telephone answering, free parking, lots of complimentary coffee, a podcast studio, a counseling room, conference rooms of various sizes, and larger spaces for events.

9. Are virtual memberships available?

Yes. These remote, flexible-use memberships are available for businesses that do not need a permanent physical office.

Business Support & Programs

10. What mentoring or advisory services are offered?
Members receive access to our MEC Mentors, business counseling, and referrals to expert advisors and partner organizations like SBDC. 

11. Does MEC Fairfax host networking events or workshops?

We host our own networking events each month, as well as educational workshops for our entrepreneurs and those in the community. We also partner to host groups like 1MillionCups, as well as classes and seminars to promote learning, collaboration, and connections.

12. Can MEC Fairfax assist with funding and investor connections?

We can help with referrals to capital sources that fit with the stage of development of your business. Our team and mentors can guide the development of your pitch and your slide deck for investor presentations.

Costs & Financials

13. What are the membership fees/rent costs?
Costs are very competitive for newer office space in Northern Virginia and vary from virtual memberships to coworking to fully furnished offices for up to four people. Contact us directly at mecffx@gmu.edu to arrange a tour.

14. Are there any additional costs besides base rent?

Our rent is all-inclusive of utilities, office furnishings, and internet access. Also included is access to all the resources we make available to grow your business. Overage of conference or event room time is billed at discounted member rates.

Business Development

15. Does MEC Fairfax help with market research and business planning?
Members can access market research, strategic planning support, and business development expertise through our MEC Mentors and partner SBDC.

16. Can international companies join?

We welcome your company to establish your US office at MEC Fairfax through our Soft Landings program. Many of the resources available to our entrepreneurs are also available to international firms entering the US. We have experience working with several companies new to the US or Virginia in recent years.

17. Are there partner programs available?

Members benefit from referrals to affiliated programs—SBDC, APEX Accelerator, Innovation Commercialization Assistance Program (ICAP), and more. We’ll connect you with the right organization at the right time for your company. We also have partnerships with area service providers through our MEC Partners program.

Community

18. What is the community atmosphere like?
The center is known for a collaborative, supportive culture among entrepreneurs, mentors, friends of the MEC program, and stakeholders. We’re easy to know and connect with.

19. Will joining MEC Fairfax help my business grow?

That’s why we exist! But the entrepreneurs that do best seek out advice, are coachable, and take advantage of the resources available to them. Our team is dedicated to help you take the right next steps to give your company its best chance of success.

Contact & Next Steps

20. How can I learn more or schedule a tour?
Contact us at mecffx@gmu.edu to get more information or to arrange a tour. You can also visit the MEC Fairfax website (mec-fairfax.org) and submit your information via the Apply button on the Contact page. We can’t wait to meet you!