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.

Learn more
humanoider Kopf einer Maschine

Societal Transformations

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

Learn more
Hand with compass

Exploration

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

Learn more
Schachfigur "Pferd"

zukunft.niedersachsen

Funding program for top-level research in Lower Saxony.

Learn more
Portrait einer Frau

ehrenwerk.tv für VolkswagenStiftung

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
  • Herrenhausen Extra
  • With live stream

05 Nov 2025, 06:00 p.m. - 08:00 p.m.

Knowember der Wissenschaft 2025: Fit für die Zukunft – Forschung aus Hannover für ein gesundes Leben

Learn more
Keyvisual zum Knowember der Wissenschaft
  • Public event
  • Herrenhäuser Forum
  • With live stream

06 Nov 2025, 07:00 p.m. - 09:00 p.m.

Tendenziell hormonell – Die große Macht der kleinen Botenstoffe

Learn more
Zu sehen ist ein Hormonnetz. Das Bild ist mit Hilfe von KI generiert.

Newsroom

Illustration with people sitting around an oversized compass
Funding Offer 20 October 2025

Apply now: Scoping Workshops

This is about the future of your research area: What is the current status? What prospects are there for further development - and how can they be realised? With the "Scoping Workshops" the foundation offers space for discussion and intensive exchange. Online Q&A (in German) on 10 February 2026, deadline: 17 March 2026.

Read article
Illustration mit Mann mit Schutzhelm vor einer Brückenbaustelle, an der zwei unterschiedliche Brücken, eine mit US und eine mit deutscher Fahne, aufeinandertreffen
In Brief 13 October 2025

New Bridge Professorships for Transatlantic Research

With its new funding initiative "Transatlantic Bridge Professorships", the Foundation aims to strengthen connections between renowned scholars from the United States and research institutions in Germany. The programme focuses on key topics such as democracy, fundamental rights, and academic freedom.

Read article