Office Space News
HUBsf to Bring Social Consciousness to San Francisco Coworking Scene
Published May 1st, 2009 by Jennifer LeClaire
Although some may dispute San Francisco is the birthplace of coworking, one thing is certain: the California city is a major hub for this growing alternative workspace trend. And that’s what makes the entrance of HUBsf so fitting.
Set to debut in September 2009, HUBsf is the first U.S. affiliate of United Kingdom-based HUB. HUB is a network that boasts thousands of social innovators that connect online or meet at one of the company’s 18 worldwide locations. But HUB isn’t just any coworking facility – it’s for coworkers with a cause.
HUB caters to social entrepreneurs that are advancing positive change in society. HUBsf calls its customers, “a diverse local and global community dedicated to building solutions for social, economic, and environmental sustainability.” The idea is that sharing office space not only cuts rental costs, it also reduces the organization’s carbon footprint, making it an environmentally-friendly way to office.
“We believe these solutions take root when passionate people – entrepreneurs, thought leaders, investors, and activists – come together to inspire and accomplish. Through the strength of our community, people can simply do more,” the company wrote on its Web site. HUBsf expects to attract social innovators working on tech for the developing world, investing for impact, fair trade, new media, NGOs, local food, green design and other solutions.
“People also choose HUBsf because our green space is beautiful and houses all you need to get things done; reliable internet, organic coffee and food, meeting rooms, IT support, along with potential mentors and collaborators working all around you,” the company said. “Not to mention that you only pay for the time you use – not a permanent desk that you sit at half the week and don’t need much anyway. The end result is that you work with people who do what they believe in, enjoy a dynamic space, pay a lot less for a better experience, and get more done.”
Here’s another interesting twist: At night, HUBsf becomes a social alternative for people craving knowledge, creativity, and inspiration. Members can attend concerts, art openings, lectures, and workshops in the theater, while also joining in and throwing their own parties on the rooftop deck. Even though the facility doesn’t officially open until September, there are already events scheduled.
“Van Jones will change the way you look at ‘green’ or Obama’s Director of Social Innovation will explain how Washington is contributing to the landscape. Another night, you’ll catch an eye-opening documentary film about social justice. Or maybe you’ll throw your own party to welcome home a friend who’s been eating ugali for the last six months while developing an HIV/AIDS project,” the Web site promises.
This is definitely a coworking space to watch. It puts a whole new spin on the concept. Check back with us in September so we can explore the grand opening together.
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Elizabeth Sanchez May 4th, 2009 at 8:50 am
Very interesting. I see this coworking facility in San Francisco is gearing up to make a big splash, seeing as it isn’t even set to open until September but is already pushing its messaging. San Francisco has quite a few coworking facilities already, but this one seems different with its social entrepreneur focus. I look forward to reading more about it.
Bill Brookshire May 4th, 2009 at 8:54 am
This coworking facility seems to take on the interests of its tenant’s needs to socialize at a much higher level, even going so far as to have after-hour events. That’s really unique. I don’t think I’ve seen anything like it in the coworking field.
Rob Zeus May 7th, 2009 at 11:53 am
Leave it to California to attract coworking facilities with funk. Have you see the website for HUBsf? This is really out there in terms of coworking facilities. I mean, most of them house creative professionals and many have cool looks, but this entertainment extravaganza is really something else. I’ve never seen it before. I think it’s great. Serviced office facilities should do stuff like this!
Marcus Hester May 8th, 2009 at 2:52 pm
This is fascinating. I love the concept of coworking facilities going social. After all, that’s part of the foundation of coworking – not to be isolated. So why not have some events where the coworking entrepreneurs can unwind after a long day of helping to change the world. Love it.