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.

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"

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Funding program for top-level research in Lower Saxony.

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  • Public event

Nov. 09, 2024, 07:30 PM - 09:20 PM

Finale des Debattier-Turniers im Xplanatorium

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Das Bild zeigt Ausschnitte eines klatschendes Publikums.
  • Public event
  • Herrenhausen Science Movie Night

Nov. 15, 2024, 06:00 PM - 09:15 PM

Climate Endgame – radikal, rücksichtslos, gerechtfertigt?

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Das Bild zeigt Aktivist:innen, die auf die Unsinnigkeit der Erschließung von Erdöl in der Nordsee hinweisen.
  • Expert meeting
  • Symposium

Nov. 19, 2024, 01:30 PM - Nov. 21, 2024, 01:00 PM

Global Issues Convention 2024

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Das Bild zeigt eine Weltkugel.
Foto mit zwei Frauen, darüber der Text "Falling Walls Science Summit, 7-9 Nov 2024, Berlin
In brief 07. November 2024

Falling Walls Science Summit - Livestream

The Falling Walls Science Summit will take place from November 7 to 9 in Berlin. The Volkswagen Foundation is organising events on topics including artificial intelligence and the US election 2024, which are accessable via livestream.

Eine Frau schaut in die Kamera
In brief 06. November 2024

Women's Impact Award: Watch the award ceremony live

At this year's Falling Walls Science Summit, the Volkswagen Foundation and other partner organisations are sponsoring the "Women's Impact Award" from "Female Science Talents". The three winners will be honoured at the live award ceremony on 7 November at 5:30 PM.