As sources of knowledge and innovation, universities are instrumental in developing solutions to societal challenges. Maastricht University plays its part through leading research in areas such as health and sustainability. Yet scientific research is costly, which means private donations are becoming increasingly important. By making a donation or leaving a legacy to science, you can support research that matters to you and makes a lasting difference to future generations.
The affordability of healthcare, the energy transition, the future of education—the challenges facing society are becoming ever greater. Universities have a key role in finding solutions, but scientific research requires specialist knowledge, long-term commitment and strong financial backing. Many promising research projects are, however, not eligible for government funding. This is why scientific breakthroughs are increasingly dependent on donations from organisations, individuals and charitable foundations. Those wishing to support research at UM can do so through the University Fund Limburg in a tax-friendly way, even if they live abroad.
More and more people recognise the importance of rigorous scientific research and want to contribute to it themselves. Dr Rogier Veltrop, a cardiovascular researcher in the Department of Biochemistry at UM and founder of the Healing Heart Fund, a Named Fund within the University Fund Limburg, has seen this first-hand.
Veltrop is working towards a definitive solution for cardiovascular disease, a mission with particular personal significance for him as the recipient of a donor heart. He can now create beating 3D heart tissue using a patient’s DNA. This is important because the heart consists of multiple layers of cells, whereas much previous research has focused on single-cell layers. By developing 3D heart tissue, Veltrop can study in the laboratory how these different layers interact, bringing the research closer to the complex conditions found in the human body.
Donor support has played a significant role in this breakthrough. In recent years, Veltrop has received several major donations from the Netherlands and abroad, enabling him to accelerate his research. This support also gives him considerable scientific freedom, unlike conventional grant programmes, which often require researchers to specify both their research plan and the use of funds in advance. “Donations give me the freedom to better understand genetic heart failure and explore new directions,” he says. “We may initially think we need to pursue route X, only for an early study to show that route Y will actually bring us closer to a solution. Scientific progress can’t be planned according to a fixed timeline.”
Thanks to the donations, Veltrop has been able to expand his research team with several PhD candidates. “It literally gives me extra pairs of hands in the laboratory, as well as additional expertise. I build the team around complementary strengths, so that everyone brings something different. Some members specialise in bioinformatics and write programming scripts, for example, while others have a strong background in genetics.” Together, these different areas of expertise bring him closer to his goal: improving the quality of life of patients with genetic heart failure.
Advanced equipment is equally indispensable. Thanks to another donor, Veltrop has been able to invest in technology that distinguishes his research from that of others. “If you want to be at the forefront of the field, you need access to advanced equipment that isn’t available everywhere.” Smaller donations also make a meaningful difference, helping to cover the costs of laboratory supplies, for example – think cell culture media and pipette tips.
Many of Veltrop’s donors have a personal connection to heart failure. Some are patients themselves; others have a loved one with heart failure and therefore understand the impact of the disease. “We sometimes invite donors into the lab to update them personally on the latest research developments and innovations. Their commitment and trust are the fuel that keeps the engine running.”
It is not only donations made during a person’s lifetime that can help drive research forward. Many people are looking for ways to make a lasting impact on future generations. Leaving a legacy to science enables you to turn that ambition into reality. You decide which field of research or project your legacy will support. It might contribute to research into treatments for serious diseases, such as Veltrop’s work, but equally to sustainable food production, reducing loneliness among older people or improving living conditions in slums. In short, it can support research across virtually any of UM’s research areas.
You can leave a legacy to UM by including the University Fund Limburg in your will. You can choose to name the Fund as a beneficiary of your estate, in which case the Fund receives a specified percentage of the estate. Alternatively, you can leave the Fund a specific sum of money or a particular asset. The Fund holds annual information sessions on legacy giving and can also explain the options in more detail during a personal consultation.
Leaving a legacy to UM supports the university’s growth and advances in research and education, but above all it is an investment in the society of tomorrow. It helps ensure that knowledge, talent and social progress can continue to flourish for generations to come.
Would you like to know more about donating or leaving a legacy to UM? Click the button below or contact us at info@ufl.nl.