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.

Feel free to get in touch with us.

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.

Ein Student trägt auf seinem Laptop Termine in den Kalender ein.

Credit: Anna Logue

Projects

The foundation is committed to the University of Mannheim in a variety of ways. We fund professorships, support students in financing their studies and contribute to the maintenance of the historic palace buildings – for a strong university in a unique environment.

Events

The foundation regularly invites its supporters to exclusive lectures, guided tours and events – sometimes in small groups, sometimes on a large scale. This is our way of saying thank you, providing insights into our work and promoting exchange between committed people.

Händeschütteln am Handgelenk IloveMannheim Freundschaftsband

Credit: Anna Logue

Supporting

A foundation is there to do something good in the long term. Whether through donations, endowments or personal commitment – there are many ways to get involved. Every contribution counts and helps to promote talent, initiate new ideas and secure knowledge for future generations. Engage to make a difference!

Trash People: 30 Years Around the World

Since 28 September 2026, the Trash People by internationally renowned action artist HA Schult have been on display at Mannheim Palace (East Wing). Until 15 October 2026, more than 70 figures made from compressed everyday waste are being presented in the central area of the palace to mark the 30th anniversary of the Trash People series.

Over the past decades, the project has been presented at numerous internationally significant locations – including in front of the Pyramids of Giza, on the Great Wall of China, and in the Alps near Zermatt. With its presentation in Mannheim, this globally renowned art project is being shown on site in a university context for the first time. The Trash People invite visitors to engage with questions surrounding sustainability, resource consumption, and social responsibility.

More information

Credit: Mirela Herkt

ART – Creating Space

Art is a unifying force that we can realize at our university with your support. Help us create a new, vibrant space for all of us. Your donation makes a difference! I look forward to having you on board!

Your support is extremely valuable to us. We would like to show our gratitude by publishing your name on the University of Mannheim Foundation website, provided you agree. If you do not wish your name to be published, please let us know.

Principles

Our charitable activities are based on clear and transparent principles. We build our commitment on these criteria.

Organization

The bodies of the University of Mannheim Foundation are the board of directors, the board of trustees and the investment advisory board. Get to know the bodies and the team of the foundation.

Contact

Feel free to contact us. We are happy to answer your questions on funding, donations and the foundation.

Bylaws

The bylaws set the ground rules for the foundation. You can find the current version here (only in German).

Annual Report

Find out more about our assets and use of funds in 2025 here (only in German).

FAQ

Here you can find the most frequently asked questions and answers on the topic of foundations. You are also welcome to contact us.

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.
➡️ More informations

Credit: Edmund Kuhlmann

In Grateful Memory of Edmund Wilhelm Kuhlmann

Edmund Wilhelm Kuhlmann had a particularly close connection to the University of Mannheim. Through his trust and generous support, he supported the Foundation’s work for many years and helped create opportunities for young people and make important projects at the University possible.

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!

Please feel free to contact us personally.

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.