The King Baudouin Foundation (KBF) is an independent public benefit foundation based in Brussels, Belgium. Established in 1976, it aims to contribute to a better society by supporting initiatives in Belgium, Europe, and internationally. KBF focuses on several key areas including social justice and poverty, health, heritage and culture, education, climate and environment, and European integration. The foundation employs various methods such as providing financial support, promoting philanthropy, conducting research, organizing events, and facilitating partnerships. With an annual budget of over 200 million euros, KBF supports around 3,500 projects and individuals each year. Typical grant amounts vary depending on the program, ranging from a few thousand to several hundred thousand euros. The foundation operates through calls for proposals, with selection criteria specific to each program. Recent initiatives supported by KBF include projects addressing energy poverty, digital inclusion, and support for Ukrainian researchers affected by the war. The foundation also manages donor-advised funds and facilitates cross-border philanthropy through networks like Transnational Giving Europe. KBF emphasizes pluralism, independence, and transparency in its operations. It serves as a platform for dialogue on important societal issues and aims to foster sustainable positive change in Belgium and beyond.
The King Baudouin Foundation (KBF) could potentially support the European Housing Cooperative (EHC) through several of its programs focused on social justice, poverty reduction, and sustainable development. KBF's Housing program aims to promote access to decent long-term housing for vulnerable people. This aligns well with EHC's goal of providing affordable cooperative housing across Europe. The Foundation has previously supported organizations enabling vulnerable people to access housing and has developed social investment strategies focused on housing for homeless and single-parent families. The Europe program of KBF supports reflection and debate on major European issues, including economic and social challenges. This could be relevant for EHC's pan-European cooperative housing model. KBF has worked with over 50 European partner foundations on such initiatives. Additionally, KBF's Sustainable Development program might support EHC's focus on environmentally friendly housing solutions. The Foundation has backed projects promoting energy efficiency and combating energy poverty. In the past, KBF has funded initiatives like De Woongenoten, a housing cooperative in Belgium, and the Platform for fighting fuel poverty. It has also supported research and data collection on homelessness across Europe. To engage KBF, EHC could highlight how its cooperative model addresses affordable housing needs across Europe while promoting social cohesion and sustainability.