Joachim Herz Stiftung

From coffee beans to brilliant minds. That’s the essence of the Joachim Herz Stiftung. We stand on the grounds of what was once a coffee roastery, owned by Joachim Herz himself. The Joachim Herz Stiftung, established in 2008, now occupies this space, a testament to Herz’s vision. This foundation, one of Germany’s largest, boasts resources of 1.3 billion Euros. Its mission is to cultivate education, science, and research, particularly in the natural sciences, economics, law, medicine, and engineering. The old roasting tower still stands tall, a 25-meter beacon integrated into a modern, 3-story building. This structure, completed in 2014, meanders around the old tower, a dynamic interplay of old and new. Joachim Herz, a man of unconventional spirit, valued freedom and individuality. He believed that wealth carried the responsibility of social contribution. The Joachim Herz Stiftung reflects these values, offering both individual and structural support to create opportunities for young people. Inside, the foundation’s offices are bright and airy, thanks to glass partitions and room-high windows. Corridors offer glimpses into courtyards. The consistent materials and muted colors create a calm, focused atmosphere. Outside, a 700 square meter garden with a large lake provides a tranquil setting. The Joachim Herz Stiftung carries on Herz’s legacy. It champions risky, interdisciplinary, and application-oriented research projects. It fosters innovation at the intersection of engineering and natural sciences. The foundation believes that groundbreaking ideas from science are crucial to addressing current challenges. Even the smallest details whisper of Joachim Herz. His old VW bus, parked within the foundation’s “tower”, holds a pair of his old sneakers behind the back seat. These tangible reminders connect us to the man whose vision continues to inspire. The Joachim Herz Stiftung. From the aroma of coffee to the spark of discovery, this foundation fosters knowledge and empowers future generations.