Our funding goals
We provide funding for research and teaching in the STEM fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. As one of the major foundations in Germany, we continue our founder’s mission in a contemporary form. We provide funding via tenders, programmes and projects. In doing so, we follow four guiding principles:
We facilitate scientific breakthroughs
... in basic research and applied research.
We strive to achieve scientific breakthroughs with added value for science, the economy and society. Our funding ranges from basic research to specific applications.
We offer freedom
... for people and institutions.
We place our trust in the creativity of individuals and the power of innovation of the organisations for which we provide funding. We encourage bravery and the willingness to try out new things by also sharing risks. In this regard, we act quickly and flexibly.
We build upon our reputation
… by focusing on key topics and the potential of science.
Scientific discoveries drive progress in society and the economy. That is why we focus our funding on thematic priorities that address current scientific challenges and are relevant to the economy or society. In addition, we support specific areas of scientific potential by funding talented young scientists, particularly bold, high-risk research ideas, the improved transfer of scientific findings to industry, and the communication of scientific content and ideas to society.
We create added value
... by supporting partnerships.
We work at interfaces: between academic disciplines, scientific institutions, social sectors and countries. In this regard, we bring people together and provide funding for multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary research approaches.
Contact
Anna Müller-Trimbusch
Member of the Management Board, Head of Funding
Phone: +49 (0)711 - 162213 - 14