Why SAP Supports Berlin Pride

Pride. Always Shining.

Pride is more than a moment or a month. It is a commitment to visibility, belonging, and creating spaces where people can thrive as their authentic selves all year round. That is the idea behind this year’s global Pride@SAP theme: “Pride. Always Shining.” 
That is also why SAP is proud to support Berlin Pride (CSD Berlin) as an Event Sponsor in 2026.

Diversity Is Not a Campaign – It Is a Foundation for the Future

Across the world, businesses rely on SAP’s technology to keep economies moving and communities connected._Behind that technology are more than 100,000 individuals—people with diverse backgrounds, experiences, perspectives, and identities—shaping how innovation comes to life. That diversity is one of our greatest strengths. At Pride@SAP Germany, we express this commitment through our local slogan: “Unapologetically Inclusive.”  To us, inclusion goes beyond representation. It means actively creating environments where people feel seen, valued, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives, even when conversations become difficult or progress cannot be taken for granted. Because innovation happens when different perspectives come together.

Why Inclusion Matters for Business

Technology is built by people. The more diverse the teams creating products, solving problems, and making decisions, the better the outcomes tend to be. For companies, inclusion is about more than policies or programs. It is about creating environments where people can contribute fully without feeling the need to hide parts of who they are. People do their best work when they feel respected, valued, and safe to be themselves. That principle applies in the workplace just as much as it does in society.

Why Pride Still Matters

Significant progress has been made for LGBTQIA+ communities over recent decades. At the same time, challenges to equality, visibility, and inclusion persist around the world. In a city like Berlin—long known for its history of diversity, self-expression, and activism—Pride carries a particularly powerful meaning. Berlin Pride (CSD) is not only a celebration, but a continuation of that legacy. That is why events like Berlin Pride remain so important.
They create visibility.
They foster connection.
They encourage dialogue.
And they remind us that progress cannot be taken for granted.
For SAP, Berlin Pride is far more than a parade. It is a platform for community, engagement, and collective action—a place where the spirit of “Pride. Always Shining.” comes to life.

Stronger Together

As part of our partnership with Berliner CSD e.V., we were proud to help bring together leaders from business, civil society, and community organizations through the inaugural Berlin Pride Summit. The conversations reinforced a powerful idea: meaningful progress happens when people come together across organizations, industries, and communities.
Real change is built through partnership.
Through listening.
Through collaboration.
And through the willingness to stand up for inclusion.

Looking Ahead 

The future will be shaped by diverse perspectives, experiences, and ideas. That future requires workplaces where people can thrive authentically and communities where everyone feels they belong. Spaces like Berlin Pride play a vital role in bringing people together and make inclusion visible. That is why we are proud to support Berlin Pride 2026, not only as a sponsor, but as a partner committed to helping create a more open, inclusive, and equitable future. We invite you to be part of it—join the conversation, show your support, and help make inclusion visible in your own communities.

“At SAP, inclusion is both a cultural commitment and a business imperative. Diverse perspectives strengthen how we innovate, improve decision-making, and ultimately deliver value to our customers. Pride@SAP continues to play a vital role in fostering an environment where colleagues feel respected, supported, and able to contribute fully. Our 2026 Pride Month theme, “Pride. Always Shining,” reflects our ambition to keep inclusion visible and relevant throughout the year. I am proud to serve as Executive Sponsor of a community that strengthens both our culture and our performance.”
– Dominik Asam, Member of the Executive Board of SAP SE, CFO

“Inclusion only creates impact when it is consistent, visible, and embedded in how we lead and work every day. Pride@SAP is a powerful example of how employee-driven communities can shape culture, strengthen business outcomes, and build meaningful connections beyond our organization. As we look ahead, our focus is clear: to continue fostering belonging, scaling allyship, and working together with partners to drive lasting change.”
– Rashmi Verma, Chief Inclusion & Social Impact Officer at SAP

Because “Pride. Always Shining.” means showing up for inclusion every day of the year. And “Unapologetically Inclusive” is how we choose to bring that commitment to life—together.
Not just during Pride Month.
But always.