WOULD YOU LIKE TO BECOME A FOUNDER

In Switzerland, philanthropy has traditionally focused more on culture and social issues than on education, research, and innovation (ERI). Only 3% of Swiss grantmaking foundations are active in the field of innovation. Yet this is precisely where philanthropy holds great potential: The knowledge base and innovative capacity of a society are key drivers of economic and social prosperity.

Many potential donors are hesitant to engage in ERI due to the complexity of the topics or the perceived risk of innovation funding. With over 25 years of experience, Gebert Rüf Stiftung has been supporting entrepreneurially implemented projects in technology, education, and science communication — building deep expertise and a strong network across universities and innovation ecosystems.

We are happy to realize your philanthropic vision together with you and offer a range of ways to become involved in innovation — even without establishing a foundation of your own.

For assets under CHF 10 million, the return on capital is often out of proportion to the foundation's goals and its administrative costs. In such cases, a sub-endowment to Gebert Rüf Stiftung or to the umbrella structure of the Kick Foundation may be a more effective path.

Together with its funding partners, Gebert Rüf Stiftung has launched the Kick Foundation, 

with the aim of strengthening collaboration in the field of innovation and entrepreneurship. The Kick initiative offers Switzerland’s next-generation talent a comprehensive training and support programme — focused on entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation. Through a stepwise selection process, it supports ideas from their earliest stage in school, through university, all the way to growth financing.
This value chain-based support is unique — and open to further donors.

Get in touch with us. We would be pleased to advise you personally.