The Foundation Compass – Everything you need to know about foundations
Establishing a foundation, making a donation, sponsoring … What do these terms actually mean? And what are the key differences? The world of foundations is characterised by a multitude of terms, whilst at the same time alternative forms of foundations are becoming increasingly prevalent in today’s (foundation) landscape: this leads to confusion and numerous myths, such as the idea that foundations are only for the rich who want to save on tax. Ernst G. Wittmann is a qualified financial analyst and a long-standing foundation manager; he has been Head of Foundation Administration at LMU Munich since 2015 and has many years’ experience in a leadership role in the field of foundation consultancy. In this book, he provides an introduction to the world of foundations, which can also serve as a ‘foundation compass’ for day-to-day foundation work. It is aimed both at those interested in the world of foundations and at everyone involved in day-to-day foundation work, from foundation founders to potential donors. It features numerous practical tips, case studies and knowledge boxes to provide food for thought for day-to-day foundation work.
By Ernst G. Wittmann & Carsten Seip
FinanzBuch Verlag
Hardback, 272 pages
Published: December 2023
ISBN: 978-3-95972-463-0
Foundations and start-ups: the driving force behind medical research
On the Bavarian State Government’s decision regarding the VC4Start-ups initiative.
Private foundations play a crucial role in ensuring that medical research in Germany can progress – often in areas where government or industry funding approaches its limits. In Bavaria in particular, it is evident how strongly the interaction between foundations, universities and new initiatives shapes the climate for innovation. Recent political decisions are providing further impetus and opening up new avenues for medical breakthroughs and start-up funding.
By Ernst G. Wittmann
Chronicle of the Wilhelm Sander Foundation: 1975 to 2005, Founder, Origins, Activities
The Foundation’s chronicle is available free of charge on request from the Wilhelm Sander Foundation.
