Funding by the Vattenfall Environmental Foundation

For over 30 years, the Vattenfall Environmental Foundation has supported non-profit projects in Berlin, Brandenburg, Hamburg, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia that make a significant contribution to nature and environmental protection as well as environmental education. With a funding volume of around 5 million euros, 238 initiatives have received financial assistance to date – ranging from the renaturation of peatlands and circular economy projects to experiential nature activities for children and youth. The foundation specifically promotes measures for the preservation of habitats, the strengthening of biodiversity, and raising awareness among young people about ecological interrelationships. Research projects on environmental protection technologies are also supported. Eligible for funding are non-profit organizations and public institutions; projects must be located within the foundation’s area of activity and demonstrate non-profit status through a tax exemption certificate.

Funding applications can be submitted as grants by October 1 of each year. Decision criteria include qualitative and sustainable environmental impact, alignment with the foundation’s objectives, the project management’s capability, and regional relevance. Applying institutions – such as schools, associations, environmental organizations, or parent initiatives – prepare their documents using the official application forms and submit, alongside the project description and financing plan, the tax exemption certificate and, if applicable, the CVs of the project management. After a positive preliminary review by the foundation’s board, the foundation advisory council makes the final funding decision. Annual reports and final documentation ensure transparency and document the joint contribution to a livable environment for future generations.