Project Funding by the Non-Profit Hertie Foundation
The Hertie Foundation supports nonprofit projects in the areas of brain research as well as strengthening democracy and promoting European identity. Applications can be submitted informally at any time with a project outline.
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Grant criteria
Funding objective
Funding of non-profit projects in the areas of brain research as well as strengthening democracy and promoting European identity, particularly as seed funding for effective and innovative initiatives whose results benefit the public.
Eligible expenses
- Personnel costs
- Material costs (e.g., fees, equipment, consumables)
- Travel expenses
Non-eligible expenses
- Printing cost subsidies
- Covering budget shortfalls
- Individual scholarships outside of internal foundation programs
- Cost coverage for individual participation in congresses/conferences
- Acquisition or maintenance of collections
Eligible to apply
- Non-profit Organizations
- Public Institutions
Funding requirements
- Proof of non-profit status
- Formal submission of a project outline
- Project results must benefit the general public
Documents required for application
- Project outline (including subject, objectives, timeline, and financing plan)
- Proof of non-profit status (tax exemption certificate)
- Bank details
Evaluation criteria
- Effectiveness and innovativeness of the project
- Social benefit
- Alignment with the foundation's objectives
Description
The Nonprofit Hertie Foundation supports nonprofit organizations as well as public law entities nationwide with non-repayable grants to realize innovative projects in the fields of “Brain Research” and “Strengthening Democracy & Promoting European Identity.” As seed funding, the project support aims to promote effective solutions whose results benefit the general public. Interested applicants may submit an informal project outline at any time, detailing the subject, objectives, timeline and financing plan, as well as proof of nonprofit status. Funding covers personnel costs, material expenses (fees, equipment, consumables), and travel costs, while print cost subsidies, budget gaps, individual scholarships outside internal programs, conference fees, and collection maintenance are excluded.
Selection is based on effectiveness, degree of innovation, and alignment with the foundation’s purposes. The maximum project duration is five years, with typical recommended durations ranging from several months up to three years. A disbursement schedule ensures needs-based payments, which should be utilized within six months after funds are made available. Finally, a brief final report and an auditable proof of use must be submitted within three months after project completion. Interim reports may be required for longer-term projects. Through this funding guideline, the foundation contributes to sustainably anchoring forward-looking research and societal projects and strengthening the common good.
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