In transformation and economic development processes, universities have a responsible role alongside research and teaching in the context of their “third mission.” This concept has expanded to focus more on social engagement, social innovation, and the involvement of civil society as a key driver of research and transfer. New approaches and instruments are needed to address this challenge. Collaborative workspaces (CWS) are suitable for implementing participatory formats with civil society due to their open design and corresponding formats. This study examines how participatory formats can be implemented in a university-based outreach hub—a type of CWS—in a rural area and how civil society involvement can be facilitated. Four different participatory formats implemented in the outreach hub are presented: open lab days in the makerspace, citizens’ perspective on their town, citizen science, and participatory scenario analyses. The study discusses the special role of the outreach hub, which allows universities to engage directly with local communities and address their needs. The outreach hub acts as a crystallization point, shaping new relationships and forms of cooperation.