Foundations in Germany

What is a foundation? What motivates founders and how to estabish a foundation? How many foundations currently exist in Germany?

The documentation and research of the foundation system is a central task of the Association of German Foundations.

There is no legal definition for foundations. It merely is a generic term for a complex range of entities enshrined in private, public or church law.

It is possible for any natural person to establish a foundation. Legal entities are also entitled to act as founders.