Taking Initiative – Project Funding by the Future Foundation for Humanity and Society

The Initiative ergreifen of the Zukunftsstiftung Mensch und Gesellschaft supports nationwide, time-limited projects under nonprofit sponsorship to introduce innovative impulses for the common good and social cohesion. Projects are funded in the areas of education, research & innovation, democratic participation, vocational training & continuing education, as well as work & social affairs. Eligible applicants are exclusively associations, foundations, and other organizations operating within the framework of German nonprofit law. Selection is made through an individual review by the management and the board of trustees, which meets three times a year. Funding applications are submitted digitally via GLS Treuhand; optionally, a supplementary questionnaire can be completed to present the concept in more detail.

The aim of the project funding is to inspire new ideas and commitment already at the project’s inception that have a sustainable impact on the common good. Evaluation criteria focus primarily on the relevance as a catalyst: individuals or groups should initiate societal development with their project. In addition to the substantive aspects, the foundation places great importance on compliant handling according to German nonprofit law. Private companies are excluded; in cases of doubt, the board of trustees and management decide individually. Interested organizations receive a binding decision through a multi-stage process in the form of a written funding approval or rejection. This transparent procedure provides early clarity about funding prospects and supports initiators in contributing sustainably to social cohesion.