University of Mannheim Foundation
The University of Mannheim is one of the most prestigious universities in Germany and it is no coincidence that it occupies top positions in German and international rankings. However, academic excellence must be proven every day. Thus, a lot of freedom, including financial freedom, is required to make the most of the potential of research and teaching and make a lasting contribution to society. What is needed exceeds the available means of the Land of Baden-Württemberg, particularly regarding internationality, digitalization of teaching and future challenges. In order to remain at the forefront nationally and internationally as “your” university, it is essential to have greater financial freedom. Therefore, the University of Mannheim Foundation (Stiftung Universität Mannheim) was established. It was founded in 2005 as a result of the commitment of the Freunde Universität Mannheim e. V. and the alumni association ABSOLVENTUM MANNHEIM. Get to know us better on this page and learn more about our bodies and principles.
Fit4Excellence
With fit4excellence, the University of Mannheim is now setting the course to be part of Germany’s excellence landscape by 2030.
With new incubation spaces (UMAXplore) and the Center for Advanced Studies, we are creating places where researchers are given the time, space, and support to jointly develop pioneering, interdisciplinary research ideas—on topics such as sustainable economies, democracy, migration, or societal resilience.
Our goal: at least two applications for Excellence Clusters in the next round of the Excellence Strategy 2030.
Help us achieve this goal together and join us on our journey toward excellence. Every donation counts and brings us one step closer.
Trash People: 30 Years Around the World
Since 28 September 2026, Mannheim Palace (East Wing) has been home to the Trash People by internationally renowned action artist HA Schult. More than 70 of his iconic figures, made from compressed everyday waste, are on display until 15 October 2026, marking the 30th anniversary of this extraordinary series.
A particular highlight was the exclusive opening on 30 September. At a champagne reception, numerous friends of the University of Mannheim and supporters of the Stiftung Universität Mannheim had the opportunity to meet HA Schult in person, exchange ideas and learn more about his work.
The event was opened by Mannheim Mayor Riehle. Ms Scherbarth, Managing Director of the Stiftung Universität Mannheim and the Freunde der Universität Mannheim, and Mr Hilgenstock, Chairman of the Board of the Freunde der Universität Mannheim, also welcomed the artist and expressed their appreciation for his work.
The exhibition was made possible in part through financial support from the Freunde der Universität Mannheim and donations to the Stiftung Universität Mannheim. Their support helped bring HA Schult’s striking work and its powerful themes of sustainability, resource consumption and social responsibility to the University of Mannheim.
Over the past three decades, the Trash People have been displayed at some of the world’s most iconic locations – including in front of the Pyramids of Giza, on the Great Wall of China and in the Alps near Zermatt. Their presentation in Mannheim marks the first time the internationally acclaimed project has been shown in a university setting at the artist’s location.
The Trash People are more than an impressive visual spectacle. They encourage us to pause and reflect on how we use resources, what we leave behind and the responsibility we share for the future.
Scholarships for Students
Supporting talent, shaping the future: Our scholarship programs open up new opportunities for dedicated students – regardless of their social background. Together, we invest in the minds of tomorrow.
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Help us!
Anyone can get involved. Help us with your time, your contacts, small or large contributions so that the University of Mannheim is well positioned to meet the challenges of our time. We look forward to talking to you and will be happy to advise you!
Newsletter of the foundation
In cooperation with the Freunde der Universität Mannheim e. V., the University of Mannheim Foundation publishes a newsletter every two months to inform about activities, events and news.