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Saxony's 688 foundations drive culture and social cohesion amid economic challenges

From a 1543 legacy to modern patrons like Fritz Albert Straub, Saxony's foundations are rewriting the region's future. Will a new Foundation Day amplify their impact?

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The image shows an old map of Saxony, Germany, with text written on it. The map is detailed and...
The image shows an old map of Saxony, Germany, with text written on it. The map is detailed and shows the various geographical features of the region, such as rivers, mountains, and cities. The text on the map provides additional information about the region and its inhabitants.

Saxony's Foundation Landscape Gains Further Momentum - Saxony's 688 foundations drive culture and social cohesion amid economic challenges

Saxony is home to 688 foundations, with 18 new ones added last year. The region's oldest, the Elector Moritz Pious Foundation of Glashütte, has supported early childhood education since 1543. Now, officials are pushing to raise awareness of their news through an annual Foundation Day.

Bélafi, President of Saxony's State Directorate, has stressed the importance of foundations in tough economic times. He believes they strengthen social cohesion and drive innovation in culture and society. To highlight their impact, he plans to introduce a yearly Foundation Day that showcases their contributions.

One of the newest foundations, Areopag, was created by businessman Fritz Albert Straub. Originally from Saarbrücken, Straub began in pharmaceuticals before acquiring Deutsche Werkstätten Hellerau in Dresden in 1992. His foundation will focus on art, culture, and preserving cultural heritage, while also promoting tolerance, international understanding, and education.

In 2025, Straub transferred a majority stake in Deutsche Werkstätten Hellerau to the French group Ateliers De France. Despite this change, his commitment to Saxony remains strong. Regina Kraushaar, Saxony's Minister of State for Infrastructure, called his decision to become a patron a vital message during a period of transformation.

Experts expect the trend of new foundations in Saxony to continue into 2026. However, there is no available data comparing the growth of foundations in Saxony to other German states over the past five years.

Saxony's foundations play a key role in supporting education, culture, and social stability. With plans for an annual Foundation Day and ongoing new establishments, their influence is set to grow. The region's oldest and newest foundations alike continue to shape its future.

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