Foundations in Germany

What is a foundation? What motivates founders and how to estabish a foundation? How many foundations currently exist in Germany?

Facts and figures

The documentation and research of the foundation system is a central task of the Association of German Foundations.

What is a foundation?

There is no legal definition for foundations. It merely is a generic term for a complex range of entities enshrined in private, public or church law.

What moves founders?

A sense of responsibility and the need of giving something back to society: Many want to create something that endures and lives on after they themselves have passed away.

Establishing a foundation

It is possible for any natural person to establish a foundation. Legal entities are also entitled to act as founders.