One of the things I have learned in my time in Croatia is just to go with the flow. Attending events these days always leads to an interesting conversation or two, and so it proved with the recent G2 diaspora conference, DiWine Summer.
Among the many participants in an international gathering of 16 nationalities was the happiest Mexican I know in Croatia – Hermes Arriaga, co-founder of the first-ever coworking space in Croatia, almost ten years ago. And Impact Hub Zagreb has had plenty of impact since opening its doors in 2013. Far more than a mere coworking space and part of the larger Impact Hub family, the Zagreb hub has more than delivered on its vision over the years:
We believe the only way forward in a complex world is by joining forces to build a future where business and profit work in support of people and the planet, taking collaborative action for a better world.
In Croatia we envision a space for impact entrepreneurship and innovation for the generation of leaders who move the economy and society forward.
We found ourselves next to each other for dinner at G2 and fell into earnest conversation about life, business, and the joys of Croatia today. I had a couple of business ideas I wanted to run past his experienced brain, and he was keen to tell me about the new location he had just moved to, in a prime location in the heart of the historic Upper Town.
“And not only that, but the building and apartment is also famous as the location for one of Croatia’s most-loved films, Tko Pjeva Zlo Ne Misli (He Who Sings Means No Harm). You must come and visit, and we can talk a little more about this business idea.”
There are a growing number of coworking spaces in Zagreb, more than 20 at last count, but few can match the new Impact Hub Zagreb location for personality, heritage and location. Lived in for 50 years by an actress who has recently rented it out, so many original features and period furniture have remained and been incorporated into the layout of the new Impact Hub Zagreb that its sprawling layout on the first floor overlooking a divine courtyard are a joy to behold.
And as Hermes took me through his business coaching plan, knocking my very rough concept into shape, I contemplated for the first time dividing some of my working week with visits to this new neighbour of mine, despite having happily worked from home and cafes for 20 years. The cowork has plenty of rooms to choose from, but the vibe and mindset already being established is somewhat addictive. Only positive vibes exist.
Impact Hub Zagreb had a soft opening on Friday, welcoming friends, partners and regulars for a welcome drink and a tour. It is a location which is bound to be popular and a fantastic addition to life in the historic Upper Town. To learn more about the services of Impact Hub Zagreb, check out their official website.
