ABSTRACT
Since the 1990s, foundations in Germany have undergone a remarkable renaissance. The number of new foundations created has soared, the legal framework was substantially improved (in 2000 and 2002), and public attention has focused on foundations to an extent unimaginable even 20 years ago. The reasons are obvious: the decline of the welfare state, the difficulties encountered by governments to finance any venture beyond the upkeep of the state machine, and an increased trust in non-governmental agents of public interest. It is therefore not surprising that an age-old instrument for operating and/or funding institutions and projects for the public good is seen in a positive, perhaps all too positive light.
