Promotes critical thinking, democracy, and societal diversity through grants.
The Schöpflin Foundation is an independent, non-profit organization based in Lörrach, Germany. Founded in 2001 by Hans Schöpflin and his siblings, it focuses on promoting critical thinking, vibrant democracy, and societal diversity. The foundation operates both locally and as a supra-regional grant-maker. Its program areas include Economy & Democracy, Learning & Participation, and Backbone & Relations. The foundation runs local facilities like the Villa Schöpflin addiction prevention center and the Werkraum Schöpflin cultural venue. It also supports innovative organizations and initiatives across Europe that address major social challenges. The foundation's annual budget comes from Hans Schöpflin's entrepreneurial activities. While exact financial resources are not specified, grants can range from €5,000 to over €300,000 annually. Funding decisions are made based on the organization's entrepreneurial spirit, clear objectives, and potential for systemic change. Recent projects include supporting the Fridays For Future movement and contributing to the Media Forward Fund, a cross-border European initiative to create a sustainable journalism industry. The foundation also established Publix, a House for Journalism and Public Debate in Berlin. The Schöpflin Foundation does not typically accept unsolicited grant applications, instead identifying grantees independently. It emphasizes partnerships and collaborative funding to achieve lasting impact and societal change.