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Fishers Maker Playground | Where Imagination Meets Innovation

Innovation and creativity are taking center stage in Fishers, Indiana, as the city's very own Maker Playground (MPG) prepares to host the Make48 Season 9 Nationals from November 14-16, 2025. This highly anticipated event will bring together six top teams from three regional competitions to vie for the national title in an intense, high-energy weekend.


MPG's partnership with Make48 began in 2021 when two of their staff members, Daniel and Cassy, competed in an Indianapolis event. Since that first connection, the relationship has grown, with MPG previously hosting the 2022 Corteva Food Challenge and a 2024 competition with the Indiana FFA. Now, as the host of the national event, the Maker Playground is ready to showcase Make48’s mission in a truly incredible way. 


Indy News Channel interviews Tom Gray, Make48 CEO at Fishes Maker Playground
Make48 CEO interview at Fishers Maker Playground

A Look Inside the Fishers Maker Playground

The Maker Playground is located in Fishers, Indiana, a city north of Indianapolis that was recently designated as one of the best places to live in the country from U.S. News & World Report. Tech innovation thrives in this community, which is home to the Indiana IOT Lab and Launch Fishers, the largest co-working space in the Midwest.


The 15,000-square-foot facility at Hub & Spoke is specifically designed for events like this. Equipped with a vast array of tools and resources, MPG is the ideal backdrop for competitors to turn their ideas into reality.

  • Manufacturing Power: The makerspace features top-rated machines from UltiMakers to a ShopBot, along with a full library of woodworking tools and lasers.

  • Dedicated Zones: The facility includes several classrooms, dedicated project zones like Project Alley and Think Tank, and three Maker Lab Classrooms.

  • Inspiration Awaits: When teams need a break, they can step outside to the "backyard," which features the Cheeney Creek and Nickel Plate Trails.


The MPG staff, who are all skilled makers in their own right, will work alongside Make48 tool techs to provide expertise and support, ensuring a smooth and successful weekend for all.


Make48 team pitching their idea to 4 people on the focus group inside a Fishers MPG classroom
Focus Group meeting with Make48 team


A Community of Makers

Operated by the Fishers Parks Department, the Maker Playground has become a hub for all ages. It's a place where recreation and education come together to encourage S.T.E.A.M.-based learning, tinkering, and community building.


Memberships: The makerspace offers monthly memberships, giving members access to all tools and machines after they complete the necessary training.


Classes and Programs: MPG partners with educators and industry leaders to offer classes and camps for makers of all ages. For instance, classes like "Intro to Woodworking" are available to help members learn new skills.


Welcoming All Ages: While memberships are for makers 16 and older, younger makers can participate in a variety of classes and programs.


Fishers: A City of Innovation

Hosting the Make48 Nationals is a testament to the city's entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to fostering a community where big ideas can become a reality.


As one of Indiana’s fastest-growing communities, Fishers is a top destination for families, businesses, and entrepreneurs. The city has been recognized for its commitment to public safety, economic growth, and quality of life, earning accolades as one of the safest and best places to live in the U.S.


Fishers, Indiana | courtesy of https://fishersin.gov


The Maker Playground perfectly embodies the spirit of this dynamic city—a place that is a national leader in livability and innovation, and a vibrant community committed to fostering creativity for everyone. We can't wait to see what incredible inventions will unfold right here in Fishers!

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About Hub & Spoke & Fishers Maker Playground

Hub & Spoke is a multifaceted destination where creativity, technology, and community intersect. From co-working spaces to event venues, it provides a platform for individuals and organizations to connect, collaborate, and innovate. The Fishers Maker Playground, housed within Hub & Spoke, is a dynamic hub where creativity and innovation converge. Designed to inspire and empower the next generation of makers and thinkers, it serves as a catalyst for transformative ideas and collaborative endeavors. https://fishersmpg.com/


About Make48

Make48 is a nationwide invention competition docuseries that gives teams a challenge at the start of a three-day event. With just 48 hours, teams must create a prototype, promotional video, and sales sheet, and present their idea to a panel of judges. The teams have access to a makerspace and numerous Tool Techs that can make almost anything, patent attorneys, marketing experts, and more. This format allows everyone to have a level playing field and the chance to win, with no prior technical knowledge necessary. 



Make48 Media Contact:

Cassandra Muñoz



 
 
 

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