The University Fund Limburg (the Fund) is the charitable foundation of Maastricht University (UM), established in 1965 under the name Stichting Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs Limburg (SWOL). Learn more about the organisation’s core values and structure here.
The Fund aims to promote scientific research and education at UM and serve as a bridge between the university and society. We strive to achieve this by stimulating the further development of UM and securing resources from businesses, governments, funds, and private individuals. We also foster connections between UM and relevant social organisations, regional businesses, and alumni. Additionally, we provide grants for activities undertaken by students and staff.
Science and education are inextricably linked to universities, but also to sustainable development. We believe they are essential building blocks for a society that values issues such as (mental) health, sustainability, and equal opportunities. With knowledge and innovation, we can address pressing societal challenges.
The Fund serves as a crucial link in uniting academic excellence with societal needs. We focus on issues close to home while also supporting large-scale international projects. We believe in the power of active collaboration with our partners in the field—this way, we create not just for society, but with it. We are convinced that co-creation is essential for achieving lasting impact. Moreover, we see these collaborations as opportunities to strengthen our ambitions—including financially. After all, research is costly. We believe the Fund plays a vital facilitating role in establishing these philanthropic (private) partnerships. The unique synergy between education, research, and society will ensure a strong embedding of the university within the (EU) region and beyond. This is how we make a large-scale impact—not only by achieving scientific breakthroughs but also by providing concrete solutions for a better world tomorrow.