The Forum is one of the follow-up initiatives to the 
European conference and Expert Group on foundations and philanthropy for research supported by the European Commission. Additional information on European policy initiatives on philanthropic support for research is available on the European Commission website.
Foundations and Philanthropy: A New Impetus for Research
Foundations and philanthropic organisations can play a leading role in supporting research efforts across Europe, and have a wealth of expertise to share with all research stakeholders.
The European Forum on Philanthropy and Research Funding develops this potential by supporting initiatives paving the way for a new environment for philanthropy in research. An environment that would see:
- Effective philanthropic support for research through improved legal and fiscal environments
- Documented and better understanding of the added value of foundations’ contribution to research
- Increased awareness and visibility of the role of philanthropy in supporting research
- Philanthropic investment in research as a complement but not a substitute for public funding
Forum activities
In its initial phase, from 2007 to 2010, the Forum addresses four critical issues as identified by a cross-section of stakeholders following consultations organised by the European Commission and the EFC in 2006. These are:
- Research funding policies of philanthropic organisations
- Legal, regulatory and fiscal issues relating to donors and philanthropic organisations
- Governance and ethical issues relating to philanthropic support of research
- Fundraising by universities from philanthropic sources
They are investigated through research work, peer learning events and working groups to which interested parties are invited to participate.
>More on the Forum’s activities
Forum Steering Group
The activities of the Forum are led by a Steering Group made up of representatives from EFC member foundations that are active in research, and the European University Association.
>See full list of Steering Group Members
Contact the European Forum on Philanthropy and Research Funding
For more information on the activities of the European Forum on Philanthropy and Research Funding, please contact us at:
European Forum on Philanthropy and Research Funding
EFC
78, Avenue de la Toison d'Or
1060 Brussels
Belgium
tel.: +32.2.512.8938
fax: +32.2.512.3265
email