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

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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

  • Public event

11 Oct 2025, 11:00 a.m. - 01:00 p.m.

Starke Männer braucht das Land? Frauen zwischen Aufbruch und Rollback

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Zwei graue Zwerge blicken grimmig auf eine Gruppe bunter Gartenzwerge.
  • Public event
  • Herrenhausen Late
  • With live stream

14 Oct 2025, 08:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Gerechtigkeit vs. Empathie? Ein neuer Blick auf ein demokratisches Strafrecht

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Das Bild zeigt die Referentin Prof. Dr. Susanne Beck mit einer Zeitung lesend und im Seesel sitzend.

Newsroom

Podiumsdiskussion mit sechs Teilnehmer:innen, die nebeneinander auf einer Bühne sitzen
Event Report 18 September 2025

Research as a bridge: Lower Saxony celebrates partnership with Israel

Sixty years ago, a unique scientific collaboration began between Germany and Israel. A ceremony at Herrenhausen Palace on 15 September celebrated this engine of innovation and mutual understanding –  as well as the 100th anniversary of two leading Israeli universities.

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Funding Offer 16 September 2025

New funding offer: Transatlantic Bridge Professorships

The programme is aimed at professors at US universities who are conducting research on the future of democracy, fundamental rights and academic freedom, or the future of transatlantic relations and who would like to work simultaneously in both the USA and Germany for a period of three years.

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