Funding of the Rudolf Augstein Foundation

The Rudolf Augstein Foundation supports nonprofit organizations, public and educational institutions, as well as private individuals nationwide who are engaged in the fields of journalism, art, and social issues. Since its founding in 2005, the foundation has utilized capital of approximately €33 million and annually distributes about one million euros to strengthen critically independent journalism, open up new opportunities for disadvantaged children and youth, and enable artistic experimentation. Innovative projects that address socially relevant topics and explore new narrative forms are supported, as are initiatives that conduct integration work in challenging environments or support emerging journalists with scholarships. With this focus, the foundation aims to achieve sustainable impact and set pioneering impulses for the future.

Funding applications can be submitted year-round in the areas of journalism and social issues. For art funding, a system of fixed submission deadlines applies, with applications automatically forwarded to the next possible round. The type of funding consists exclusively of financial grants, which can be used both for pilot projects and for the implementation of already planned undertakings. Eligible to apply are initiatives of all sizes that advance investigative journalism, test creative formats, or implement educational projects for disadvantaged children and youth. Through the combination of generosity, flexibility, and thematic breadth, the Rudolf Augstein Foundation offers a reliable funding platform for initiatives seeking to sustainably strengthen press freedom, social participation, and cultural openness.