A Future Rooted in Tradition
Climate change, health, migration, digitalization. The world of the 21st century faces challenges that we can only overcome together—through scientific excellence and social cohesion. The Cologne University Foundation is working together to address these challenges—in the Cologne tradition of civic engagement. Join us in paving the way to the future!
Excellence with Charisma
The University of Cologne is one of the largest and most prestigious universities in Germany and Europe. Since its founding in 1388 and its reestablishment in 1919, it has made a significant contribution to progress around the world. We must preserve this beacon for future generations and continually renew it. Please support us in this effort.
Play an active role in shaping the future!
Individuals: Commitment
We founded the University of Cologne Foundation in 2019 to specifically advance visionary initiatives that make our world a better place and strengthen our region. With our help, you can support research, emerging scholars, or even a specific project. Every donation to the foundation directly benefits the University of Cologne.
Help create space for new knowledge!
NEWS FROM THE FOUNDATION
New 3D printing technology enhances hands-on training in dentistry
A PolyJet 3D printer at the University Hospital of Cologne provides realistic training conditions for dental students. With funding from the Cologne University Foundation, this enables the creation of practical learning environments for aspiring dentists.
New PhilLounge Creates Space for Socializing and Focus in Everyday University Life
With support from the Cologne University Foundation, a former kiosk has been transformed into a modern learning and social space at the Faculty of Philosophy. The new PhilLounge provides a space for concentration, interaction, and short breaks during the daily university routine.
German Foundation Day 2026
On May 20–21, we’ll be in Hamburg for the German Foundation Day and are looking forward to inspiring conversations.
Modern Event Technology for the Wienand House
Ein Projekt im Rahmen unserer Förderung „Technische Ausstattung“
The existing audiovisual equipment at the Wienand House has been extensively modernized. The learning and event room is now equipped with an interactive whiteboard and a 360° camera—for modern teaching, learning, and documentation.
InnoDom Cologne Honored as an Exemplary Building in 2025
The InnoDom Cologne was honored with the “Award for Exemplary Buildings in North Rhine-Westphalia 2025.” As the project sponsor, the Cologne University Foundation is delighted to receive this recognition for architecture that embodies character, quality, and a forward-looking vision.
Our Concerns
Our Projects
Innovative Cutting-Edge Research
Cutting-edge research is essential to addressing the pressing issues of the future. However, public funding is often not approved until most of the preliminary work has already been completed. With your support, you can provide effective initial funding for new ideas and research approaches.
Knowledge Transfer
Social progress depends on access to knowledge. Only in this way can we succeed in overcoming the challenges of our time. The Cologne University Foundation provides targeted support for projects that strengthen the exchange between the university and the local community. Please support us in this effort!
Outstanding Young Talent
Knowledge and education are our society’s greatest assets. The Cologne University Foundation supports these goals—whether through scholarships for talented young scholars or by providing state-of-the-art technology for innovative teaching. Join us in making a difference!
Global Connectivity
Anyone who wants to provide guidance to the world should have a thorough understanding of it. That is why the University of Cologne has created a global network of knowledge. The University of Cologne Foundation helps ensure that this network can continue to grow. Please support us in this effort!
Cologne and the surrounding region
The University of Cologne has always been an active part of the city. The Cologne University Foundation fosters close ties with the region. The goal of all our projects is to strengthen Cologne as a region and the people who live here.
The Cologne University Foundation
By playing this video, you accept that a connection to YouTube servers will be established.
The University of Cologne is addressing the diverse challenges of our time through a wide range of academic and educational programs and by promoting cutting-edge research. The Cologne University Foundation supports the university in these efforts.
Get involved with the Cologne University Foundation.