Foundation for Industrial Research

The ‘Foundation for the Promotion of Research for the Commercial Economy’ (Stiftung zur Förderung der Forschung für die gewerbliche Wirtschaft) was founded in 1974. Since 1988 it has gone under the name of ‘Foundation for Industrial Research’. The basis for this change was the fusion of the German Industrial Bank (Deutschen Industriebank) with the Industrial Credit Bank (Industriekreditbank). It was agreed that the banks involved and the Federal Government would transfer a sum, outside of normal funding, from the German Industrial Bank, which should serve the commercial economy. A Federal law, passed in 1974, finalised this agreement.

The Foundation for Industrial Research aims to strengthen and acknowledge co-operation between science and medium-sized industry by way of hands-on projects, scholarships and shared activities. The outcomes of the scientifically funded projects are intended to benefit a large number of small and medium sized enterprises. Each year, there are various advancement programs for scientists, and prizes are awarded for outstanding scientific work. At present, the Foundation for Industrial Research holds approximately 11 % of the share capital of the German Industrial Bank. The funding originates from the dividends of this share.