Diligentia – Stiftung für empirische Forschung

The Diligentia Foundation for Empirical Research is a private civil law foundation established in 2015 and based in Cologne. Its aim is to promote empirical research in the social, economic, and social sciences, particularly projects that establish innovative connections between theory and practice and expand the conventional understanding of empirical research. Up to €50,000 can be applied for per research project, primarily for data collection, analyses, and the development of necessary methods. The maximum funding period is three years, with a one-time, cost-neutral extension option.

The Diligentia Foundation is committed to advancing empirical research whose results are measurable and falsifiable in reality. It aims to link theory and practice in the economic and social sciences, with a particular focus on supporting early-career researchers and women to strengthen scientific diversity and innovation.

Eligible to apply are individuals with a doctorate who are employed at state-recognized scientific institutions in Germany, Austria, or Switzerland. Only one application per person can be considered annually, and the foundation preferentially invites early-career researchers and women to submit innovative research projects.