Kulturstiftung Dortmund

The Kulturstiftung Dortmund is a non-profit foundation that has been promoting cultural diversity and quality in Dortmund since its establishment on November 29, 1992. More than 165 companies and private individuals have come together to complement public funding by setting highlights in the areas of theater, concerts, museums, exhibitions, libraries, and collections. To date, over 290 projects have been supported with more than €4.4 million from foundation revenues. A highlight of its work is the financing of the concert organ in the Dortmund Concert Hall (€920,000), in addition to awarding the art prize endowed with €25,000 since 1998 and a sponsorship prize for emerging artists endowed with €5,000 since 2010. All committees work on a voluntary basis, ensuring that all proceeds directly benefit the funding purposes.

"Culture brings life to the city" – the Kulturstiftung Dortmund sees itself as a civic initiative of Dortmund’s business community. Its mission is to promote cultural projects through private donations that position the cultural offerings internationally, thereby sustainably strengthening and expanding Dortmund’s role in the Ruhr region.

The funding structure is aimed at cultural institutions and events in Dortmund – including theaters, concert halls, museums, and libraries – as well as established and emerging artists and ensembles. Target groups are project sponsors, institutions, soloists, and groups that contribute to the diversity and appeal of Dortmund as a cultural location.