As a private research funding organization, we support researchers with creative ideas aimed at changing the world of science – something we have been doing for more than 60 years now. Our mission: We endow knowledge.

Visit our funding portfolio Who we are

We provide support in four profile areas

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Understanding Research

Critically exploring and reflecting on the research system with a view to initiating positive change on areas such as career paths, governance, research and teaching.

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Societal Transformations

Expanding knowledge about processes of transformation and developing possible courses of action together with stakeholders in civil society.

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Exploration

Breaking into previously unexplored research territory with unconventional ideas and experimental approaches.

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Schachfigur "Pferd"

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Funding program for top-level research in Lower Saxony.

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ehrenwerk.tv für VolkswagenStiftung

How can the cultural perspective help to deal with the challenges of sinking cities?

Read the story about Hilke Berger project "Sinking Cities"

Events

  • Expert meeting
  • Hochschulpolitisches Werkstattgespräch

Mar. 21, 2025, 02:00 PM - Mar. 22, 2025, 03:00 PM

Hochschulen als Bollwerk der Demokratie

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Wegweiser Universität vor blauem Himmel
  • Expert meeting
  • Herrenhausen Conference

Apr. 09, 2025, 12:00 PM - Apr. 11, 2025, 02:00 PM

International Urban Health Summit

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Newsroom

Funding offer 05. March 2025

Change! Fellowships

With the new funding program, the Volkswagen Foundation supports scientists who conduct research on transformation processes and, with the help of their network, put their knowledge into practice. Next deadline: April 2, 2025; online Q&As on Jan. 31 and Feb. 19

 

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Schriftzug zukunft.niedersachsen
In brief 03. March 2025

Online Q&A for Lower Saxony-Scottish collaborations

A new initiative offers scientists at universities in Lower Saxony and Scotland the opportunity to conduct joint research. On 6 and 18 March, the contact persons will answer all questions about the offer in online Q&A.  

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