Stiftung Mercator
Support for low-carbon energy and other social and economic changes in Germany and internationally to reduce greenhouse gases
Principal Office: Germany
Stiftung Mercator is among the largest private foundations in Germany. It is organized into three centers: science and humanities; education; and international affairs. Mercator’s international interests focus mainly on pan-Europe, Turkey, and China.
The foundation defines themes that cut across its work in all three centers, one of which is climate change.
Grant Programs for Agriculture, Energy, Environment, Natural Resources
Climate Change. The foundation supports actions in energy, transport, and land use that reduce human-caused emissions of greenhouse gases.
The foundation focuses its actions for climate protection on Germany. However, it promotes an interest in climate protection at the pan-European level, and it supports broader international cooperation to prevent dangerous climate change.
Particular interests are climate and culture, low-carbon future cities, and the intersection of climate change with international affairs — e.g., in relation to the foundation’s work with China.
There is no minimum or maximum grant size.
About the theme
APPLICATION: Applicants read the foundation’s grant-making guidelines and submit applications in either German or English.
German-based organizations may apply for funding for a project outside Germany. Organizations with headquarters outside Germany are eligible for funding only if they meet all the requirements of German non-profit law.
A draft proposal requires a project title and description; explanation of how the project meets the Foundation’s funding criteria; and a budget.
Draft proposals can be submitted at any time; there is no calendar deadline. The Foundation invites full applications from selected applicants.
About how to apply
Geographical Distribution of Grant Activities in Developing Countries
East Asia: China
Eurasia and Central Asia: Turkey
The foundation’s website is available in German and English.
Calls for Applications lists fellowship programs.
FAQ for applicants provides a good overview.
The foundation provides its contact information in Essen, Germany.