Normally, starting a foundation is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. All the more reason why it should be a well-planned undertaking. The Ratgeber Stiften (Philanthropic Foundation Guide) series published by the Bertelsmann Stiftung can help you do this. This website supplements the guides, which can be ordered in bookstores or from Verlag Bertelsmann Stiftung. .

Volume 2: Forming a Strategy – Supporting Projects – Public Relations

Volume 3: Foundation Structures – Organizing Committees – Employees 

Fortunately, there are now many excellent information resources and services for philanthropists and their advisors. We have analyzed a wide range of resources so that you can find the information you need as quickly as possible.

Please take a few moments to explore the direction you want to take.

I would like to start my own foundation. What do I need to know?

Do any of the following statements apply to you?

“I would like to start an independent foundation.”
The information you will need to do this is available on this project website.

“I am not planning on endowing the foundation with more than €500,000 over the long term and I would like someone else to run the foundation for me.”
If this applies to you, you should familiarize yourself with the model of the charitable trust (right, under Weblinks).

“I would like to do charitable work with others and do something for the community or region I live in.”
In this case, the community foundation model would be of interest to you (right, under Weblinks).

“I don’t know which type of foundation is right for me.”
To learn more, use the decision tree, which can be downloaded as a PDF (right).