Science is an essential building block for a better future for the next generations. As a charitable foundation, the University Fund Limburg (or the Fund) has a mission to support Maastricht University (UM) in its scientific research and education.
The Fund serves as a ‘bridge’ between UM and society. This is achieved by providing grants to (scientific) staff and students, managing funds, raising donations, and establishing financial partnerships with individuals (including alumni), foundations, and businesses.
The Fund was established in 1965 with an initial capital of just 250 guilders as the Stichting Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs Limburg (translated to Limburg Scientific Education Foundation) or SWOL, with the aim of supporting the creation and development of Rijksuniversiteit Limburg. Following the closure of the coal mines in the 1960s, the South Limburg region was in great need of new economic and educational stimuli. The establishment of an eighth medical faculty in the Netherlands presented a major opportunity to put Limburg on the map and elevate scientific education to a higher level.
Thanks in part to an intensive and persistent political lobbying effort by SWOL administrators, it was possible to bring the proposed medical faculty to Maastricht, where the first medical students began their studies in 1974. This marked the beginning of what is now Maastricht University. To this day, the Fund continues to support scientific research and education at UM.
Chairman Emile Roemer
“The Fund played a crucial role in the founding of the university and has since made a significant contribution to the continued development of UM into a widely respected place of learning, research, and employment—an institution of immense value to the region. As a former teacher, I cannot stress enough how important it is for students and researchers to be able to fully dedicate themselves to building a better, smarter future. In doing so, they greatly rely on the support of the Fund and, by extension, everyone who contributes to it.
UM, including the Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), ensures that tens of thousands of young and more mature individuals—after all, learning is a lifelong process—who study and conduct research here become an integral part of our society. This, in turn, generates thousands of high-quality (in)direct jobs and leads to substantial investments in the regional economy. The university’s collaboration with businesses, governments, and institutions provides invaluable benefits to society.
At the top of our priority list is bringing the Einstein Telescope to the south of our province—a truly groundbreaking research instrument that will challenge both Limburg and the university to reinvent themselves. In the areas of sustainability and energy, we face major challenges in both the short and long term, which we must tackle together. Similarly, when it comes to health and vitality, the university’s capacity for innovation is indispensable for Limburg. As Chairman of the Fund, I am more than happy to contribute to these efforts.”
Emile Roemer, King’s Commissioner, Province of Limburg; Chairman University Fund Limburg
Director Bouwien Janssen
“At the University Fund Limburg, we work with a small but passionate team towards a better world. We are tirelessly committed to supporting scientific talent and ambitious students who, through their innovative projects and fresh ideas, are shaping a bright future. Our Equity and Inclusion Programme plays a key role in this. It offers a helping hand to young people who, due to their circumstances, would otherwise not have the opportunity to study.
In addition, we continue to focus on strengthening our connections with Maastricht University alumni. Recently, we reached the incredible milestone of 100,000 graduates, and we aim to keep this valued community informed about the Fund and the importance of giving back to their alma mater.
This year, we have begun preparations for our 60th anniversary in 2026. I would be absolutely thrilled if the Fund, through the strength of its network and financial resources—together with its board members, key donors, and regional ambassadors—can deliver an inspiring new scientific boost to our region!”
Bouwien Janssen, Director University Fund Limburg | Director Development & Alumni Relations Maastricht University
