As a private research funding organization, we support researchers with creative ideas aimed at changing the world of science – something we have been doing for more than 60 years now. Our mission: We endow knowledge.

Visit our funding portfolio Who we are

We provide support in four profile areas

Pile of books

Understanding Research

Critically exploring and reflecting on the research system with a view to initiating positive change on areas such as career paths, governance, research and teaching.

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Societal Transformations

Expanding knowledge about processes of transformation and developing possible courses of action together with stakeholders in civil society.

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Exploration

Breaking into previously unexplored research territory with unconventional ideas and experimental approaches.

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Schachfigur "Pferd"

zukunft.niedersachsen

Funding program for top-level research in Lower Saxony.

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How do we bring society around the table with AI research?

About Anika Kaiser and her research for a better dialogue between citizens and science

Events

  • Expert meeting
  • Symposium

23 Apr 2025, 09:30 a.m. - 24 Apr 2025, 05:00 p.m.

Final Symposium "AI and the society of the future"

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Es ist ein weißer Roboterarm zu sehen, der ein blau leuchtendes Gehirnmodell hält.
  • Public event
  • Herrenhausen Matinée

27 Apr 2025, 11:00 a.m. - 03:00 p.m.

Vom Ananas-Gewächshaus bis zum Zitronen-Parterre - Pflanzhäuser in historischen Gartenanlagen

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Das Bild zeigt die Orangerie Herrenhausen, davor Pflanzkübel mit Pflanzen aus aller Welt.

Newsroom

Funding offer 23 April 2025

NEXT – Rethink Neurodegeneration!

Interdisciplinary research teams investigating the fundamental mechanisms of dementia-causing neurodegeneration are invited to apply up until 28 August 2025.

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Funding offer 09 April 2025

Strategic Experimental Spaces – University Development Requires Flexibility

Funding is provided for strategic concepts at universities in conjunction with the relevant ministries, within which new approaches are tested that previously could not be implemented due to legal or bureaucratic regulations. Online Q&As on 24 April, 21 May and 17 June, deadline: 30 September 2025

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