Michael Horbach Stiftung

The Michael Horbach Foundation is a private law trust foundation based in Cologne. It was established in 2000 by Michael Horbach and is currently operated jointly with his son Tim Siemons. For over twenty years, the foundation has supported social and cultural projects both domestically and internationally. These include art therapy initiatives for children with cancer in Cuba, photographic work with refugees, infrastructure projects such as wells in Afghanistan or bicycles for Uganda, as well as exhibitions in the art spaces in Cologne. A special focus is placed on supporting young female photographers from diverse cultural backgrounds through an annual scholarship.

The Michael Horbach Foundation follows the guiding principle of "help for self-development." The aim of all foundation activities is to open up new perspectives for people in need and to empower them to independently shape their own future. At the same time, the foundation seeks to promote social awareness and encourage active engagement.

The funding programs are aimed at young, little-known female artists from foreign cultural backgrounds, offering them a multi-month studio residency as well as exhibition opportunities. Furthermore, the foundation supports disadvantaged groups worldwide, including children with cancer, refugees, needy families in developing countries, and cultural initiatives that promote self-help and self-development.