Funding of the Irene Foundation (Autism)

The Irene Foundation supports nonprofit and public organizations, educational institutions, and associations nationwide that are dedicated to promoting individuals on the autism spectrum. The focus is on projects and offerings in the areas of counseling, leisure activities, sports, self-help, as well as research and educational initiatives. The aim of the funding is to strengthen participation and self-help by financially supporting innovative or ongoing initiatives. Applications for family-relieving activities such as pedagogically supervised sibling meetings, sports programs, or leisure education measures, whose financing by cost bearers is only limitedly possible, are especially welcome. Additionally, the foundation funds seed financing for study modules or doctoral scholarships to expand knowledge about autism spectrum disorders and to promote the integration of research and practice.

As a grant provider, the Irene Foundation allows continuous application submissions without fixed deadlines. Eligible for funding are exclusively organizations and institutions; individual persons are not considered. A prerequisite for a grant is that the project aligns with the foundation’s statutes, has concrete objectives, and a transparent financial plan. General living expenses, training and further education including tuition fees, assistance dog training, and travel costs are not eligible for funding. Applications must include a completed funding application, a brief description of the organization (max. ½ page), a detailed project description (max. 2 pages), a financing plan, and bank details. Decisions are made by the board of the Irene Foundation; there is no legal entitlement. Through targeted financial support, the social, health-related, and educational work for individuals on the autism spectrum is sustainably strengthened.