Carl-Zeiss-Stiftung

1889 by the scientist and entrepreneur Prof. Dr. Founded by Ernst Abbe, we are now one of the largest and oldest scientific foundations in Germany.

The special feature of the foundation lies in the linking of various foundation purposes, which are to be fulfilled by the foundation itself and by the foundation companies.

• the promotion of research and teaching - especially in the natural sciences and engineering - by the foundation itself
• the economic security and continuation of the two foundation companies, including the special social responsibility imposed on them

• the promotion of general economic and non-profit interests and institutions by the foundation companies

  We support research and teaching in the MINT disciplines of mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology. As one of the largest foundations in Germany, we continue the mission of our founder in a contemporary form. We support through calls, programs and projects. We follow four guiding principles:

We enable scientific breakthroughs...in basic and applied research. We look for scientific breakthroughs with added value for science, business and society. Our funding ranges from basic research to concrete application.

We offer freedom... for people and institutions. We trust in the creativity of the individual and the innovative power of the institutions we support. We encourage courage and the willingness to try new things by also accepting risks. We act quickly and flexibly.

We show profile ... by concentrating on key topics. Scientific findings advance society and the economy. That is why we concentrate our funding on thematic priorities that address current scientific challenges and are of economic or social relevance.

We create added value... by supporting cooperations. We work at interfaces: between academic disciplines, scientific institutions, social sectors and countries. To do this, we bring people together and promote multi- and interdisciplinary research approaches.