I worked with a guy who banned together with a few of his college friends and made a sort of communal maker space. They rented a space, each had their own area and supplied the space with various tools that the others could use. They would occasionally rent out space for someone to come make something using their tools and sometimes experience. This would subsidize the rent for them to have space in which they could do as they please.
This is a relatively common practice within the art world (they were furniture makers/designers) but I don’t see why this wouldn’t be just as if not more productive with a bunch of engineers. I also have often seen companies grow out of such arrangements. You share a space, start working collaboratively, and before you know it you’ve got a shared product to sell.
The other added benefit is there’s always someone around to help you unload, setup and be excited about that CNC you found.
Came here to say this.
I do not advise ever giving a baby quinoa.