Fuse started as a coworking space in Richland in 2014.

A decade later, it still has hot desks and other coworking hallmarks, but it’s morphed into something more: a place that builds up businesses and the community as a whole.

Fuse is now best described as a business and community accelerator – and it’s stepping up its programming this year, fueled by that rekindled mission and a new leader.

“The knowledge, networks and resources are here (to help) business owners take the next step and become something bigger in this community and to drive this community forward,” said Paul Carlisle, an entrepreneur who’s taken over as Fuse’s director.

A launch party to celebrate the renewed Fuse is at 4 p.m. April 10.

Fuse is headquartered at 723 The Parkway. It has more than 10,000 square feet of coworking and office space, plus classroom and conference room space, a podcast studio, a kitchen, fiber internet, a print station, on-site shred service and more.

Some companies, such as Atlas Agro, have offices at Fuse, while other businesses and entrepreneurs use space and resources as needed.

Carlisle said Fuse is getting some new technology, along with a slate of new activities, as part of its rekindled mission. Watch out for socials, “lunch and learns,” and a more low-key introvert’s coffee, among other business-centered offerings.

“(We’re) introducing these different approaches to business learning and growth so that we can capture people where they are and help them grow to the next level through networking, through resources we can offer here, and then through those knowledge activities that build in a way that people are looking for,” Carlisle said.

Fuse also is set to play host to the next Tri-Cities Angel Alliance lunch in June. The networking group aims to connect entrepreneurs and investors.

And Fuse is supporting groups and activities in the greater community, including hosting an upcoming Mid-Columbia Children’s Museum event and working to accelerate Tri Town Get Down, a large music festival planned in Richland in June.

Tri Town Get Down organizers have office space at Fuse.

Carlisle is a well-known face in the Tri-Cities business community.

He grew up here, graduating from Hanford High School in 1998. He went onto Washington State University Tri-Cities, earning both undergraduate and graduate degrees.

He founded the technology company elevate, now Executech, and he’s maintained close ties with his alma mater. He’s an adjunct faculty member at WSU Tri-Cities and part of the campus’ Carson College of Business advisory council.

He’s also an entrepreneur in residence there.

Carlisle said he looks forward to the future of Fuse.

Business models and business needs are changing, and Fuse is poised to help the next generation of businesses – including those “born in the cloud” – find community, thrive and grow. It’s also poised to help the community flourish.

“As the new director here, I’m excited to see this mission through and to see the impact that I can make on the community – both in the business community and to change the community itself for the positive,” Carlisle said.

Go to: fusespc.com.