The Bertelsmann Stiftung was founded in 1977 by Reinhard Mohn as the result of social, corporate, and fiscal considerations. As the Bertelsmann Stiftung itself has put it, the foundation promotes “reform processes” and “the principles of entrepreneurial activity” to build a “future-oriented society.” Through its projects, studies and events, the Bertelsmann Stiftung stimulates debate and provides impetus for social change. Serving the public good and having a sustainable impact are the fundamental principles underlying its activities. The foundation’s initiatives not only generate solutions, they also provide empirically sound guidance for a broad public.
At present, the Bertelsmann Stiftung Executive Board consists of Dr. Ralph Heck (Chairman), Dr. Brigitte Mohn and Prof. Dr. Daniela Schwarzer.