ERSTE Foundation

The Erste Foundation supports projects in Central and Southeast Europe, including Austria. Projects that strengthen civil society are particularly welcome. Only projects by non-profit organizations are supported. The Erste Foundation is committed to a free, open, and resilient society in which all people participate equally and autonomously. We are convinced that democracy and a strong economic foundation are inextricably linked: Without a vibrant democracy, prosperity cannot be distributed fairly and equitably – and vice versa.

We face three tasks on which we want to focus our knowledge and resources: 1. Financial Health This is the economic foundation for a functioning and resilient society. Therefore, we want to promote the development and maintenance of financial health at all levels of society, with a particular focus on access to knowledge.

1. Democratic Values ​​and Principles Through our social, economic, and cultural activities, we aim to strengthen and expand democracy based on fundamental rights, together with our partners from across society.

2. Independence As a key shareholder, we strengthen Erste Group's independence and thus give its management the support to think long-term and act innovatively. In accordance with our foundation's charter, we invest our share of the profits generated in the common good.