In 2024, Stiftung Mercator approved 108 new projects with a total funding volume of over 58 million euros. The foundation focused its support on initiatives in the fields of Digital Society, Europe in the World, Climate Action, and Participation and Cohesion. It also transitioned two of its long-standing partner organisations into independence, as outlined in its annual report published today.
In response to growing public mistrust in democratic institutions, Stiftung Mercator continues to support projects that foster participation and drive forward the social and sustainable transformation of society. “In times of overlapping national and international crises, strong alliances and a genuine willingness to change are more important than ever,” says Dr Wolfgang Rohe, Chairman of the Executive Board. “Only together can we move from analysing problems to implementing real solutions.”
Among the newly launched projects is the non-partisan Initiative for an Effective State (Initiative für einen handlungsfähigen Staat), which Stiftung Mercator has supported since the end of 2024 – according to its motto #StandingUpForDemocracy. The initiative puts forward proposals for reforming the state and public administration. It is one of 108 newly approved projects with a total budget of over 58 million euros that the organisation launched last year.
Projects advancing Rule of Law and Digital Sovereignty
Other examples include support for Aktion Zivilcourage, which offers local moderation training in Eastern Germany to manage crisis and conflict situations – strengthening civic engagement in the face of right-wing extremism and anti-democratic forces. Meanwhile, partners like Rule of Law Clinic are analysing how effectively the EU enforces its own rule-of-law standards and protects fundamental rights.
The foundation has also set new priorities in the area of socially just climate action. One example is its support for a monitoring study by International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), which explores ways to expand access to electric mobility for low-income groups. The widespread use of disinformation and propaganda through digital channels – especially during 2024’s super election year – was another key focus. Through a diverse funding portfolio, Stiftung Mercator continues to promote greater digital sovereignty across Europe.
At the end of 2024, two key partners reached a major milestone: Ruhr University Bochum, TU Dortmund University, and the University of Duisburg-Essen are continuing the work of the Mercator Research Centre Ruhr (MERCUR) – founded 15 years ago – now with their own resources. In addition, the Mercator Research Institute on Global Commons and Climate Change (MCC) has become part of the renowned Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) as its fifth research department.
Since its founding, Stiftung Mercator has supported 2,160 projects with a total of 1.02 billion euros (as of the end of 2024). Funding primarily supports research institutions, civil society organisations, and think tanks, typically over multi-year periods.
PRESS CONTACT
Lothar Kuhn | Director Communications
T +49 201-245 22-36 | lothar.kuhn@stiftung-mercator.de
About Stiftung Mercator
Stiftung Mercator is a private, independent, and non-profit foundation that acts on the basis of scientific expertise and practical project experience. Since 1996, it has been advocating for a society based on solidarity and participation. To this end, it supports and develops projects that improve participation and cohesion in an increasingly diverse community. Stiftung Mercator stands up for a cosmopolitan, democratic Europe, a digital transformation of state and society based on fundamental rights, and socially just climate change mitigation. Stiftung Mercator pursues activities in Germany, Europe and worldwide. It feels particularly connected to the Ruhr area, home of its founder’s family and the foundation’s headquarters.
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