The Bertelsmann Stiftung is one of Germany's largest private operating foundations, established in 1977 by Reinhard Mohn. Based in Gütersloh, it focuses on promoting social reform and development through research, analysis, and pilot projects in areas such as education, democracy, Europe, health, values, and the economy. The foundation operates independently and is politically neutral. It does not provide grants but rather conceives, initiates, and implements its own projects. Key activities include conducting studies, organizing events, and developing policy recommendations. The Bertelsmann Stiftung collaborates with partners from academia, civil society, and the public sector to address societal challenges. In 2022, the foundation had a budget of approximately €75 million for its nonprofit work. While specific project financing amounts are not publicly disclosed, the foundation invests in a wide range of initiatives across its focus areas. Recent projects have included studies on digital skills in the German labor market, the development of SDG indicators for municipalities, and analyses of global transformation processes through the BTI Transformation Index. The Bertelsmann Stiftung aims to strengthen civil society and help individuals reach their full potential by providing access to knowledge, expertise, and innovative solutions for pressing social issues. Its work has both a national and international scope, with a particular emphasis on evidence-based policymaking and fostering dialogue across sectors.
The Bertelsmann Stiftung could potentially support the development of the European Housing Cooperative (EHC) through several of its programs and initiatives. The foundation's "Europe's Future" program, which focuses on strengthening European integration and social cohesion, aligns well with EHC's goals. This program could provide financial support, research expertise, and networking opportunities to help establish and expand the cooperative housing model across Europe. Bertelsmann Stiftung's "Communities for Better Living" program, which aims to improve quality of life in cities and regions, could also be relevant. It could offer funding and knowledge sharing to help EHC develop sustainable, affordable housing solutions in different European communities. The foundation's emphasis on social innovation and entrepreneurship could benefit EHC through mentorship, capacity building, and potential seed funding. Bertelsmann Stiftung has previously supported initiatives like the Social Impact Lab, which nurtures social enterprises across Germany. Additionally, the foundation's research and policy work on issues like demographic change, integration, and sustainable economic models could provide valuable insights for EHC's development strategy. While Bertelsmann Stiftung hasn't directly funded large-scale housing cooperatives in the past, its support for social innovation projects and community development initiatives suggests potential alignment with EHC's mission to create more accessible, sustainable housing options across Europe.