SAP, the giant German enterprise software company, today unveiled "HanaHaus" a 15,000 square-foot coffee shop and co-working space located on University Avenue inside the historic Varsity Theater.

SAP has a large research center in Palo Alto. The idea for HanaHaus came from Hasso Plattner, co-founder of SAP,  who's interested in the process of innovation and how people collaborate to create new ideas. 

Plattner said:

Our goal is to create a sense of community, along with a culture that actively fosters creativity, connection and collaboration. These elements are vital to discovery and the cultivation of new ideas. We believe that you can’t replace the energy that comes from bringing people together. HanaHaus is open to everyone and we’re eager to see how it evolves as people make it their own.

Of course, Blue Bottle coffee will be served. Also, on offer:

· Open workspaces and closed-door meeting rooms for rent.

· A large assembly space accommodating up to 100 people for special events, for rent.

· Design thinking workshops, innovation showcases, how-to sessions, inspirational speakers, hackathons, musical events and more.

· A tech desk where entrepreneurs and others who are passionate about technology can learn about the latest innovations, inquire about services and connect with experts.

 

www.hanahaus.com

Foremski's Take: It would be far more courageous and interesting if SAP chose to locate HanaHaus a couple of miles down the street in East Palo. This is a very poor and neglected neighborhood in the heart of Silicon Valley.

Can tech companies make a difference in their communities? Yes, I believe they can, where there is a will there is always a way.