The Schöpflin Stiftung is a German foundation with an annual budget of 21 million euros that operates across multiple regions, combining direct programming in its home base of Lörrach with nationwide grant-making across Europe. Founded in 2001 by siblings Hans, Albert, and Heidi Schöpflin, the foundation emerged from a personal tragedy: Hans Schöpflin established the organization after his son's death from a drug overdose in 1995, channeling his wealth—accumulated through venture capital investing—into institutional support for civil society.
The foundation pursues its mission through two distinct tracks. Locally in Lörrach-Brombach, it operates several facilities: the Villa Schöpflin addiction prevention center, the Werkraum Schöpflin cultural venue, a primary school established in 2021, and the FABRIC community space. In Berlin, it runs Publix, a house dedicated to journalism and public discourse that opened in September 2024.
As a grant-maker, the Schöpflin Stiftung supports civil society organizations across Europe focused on strengthening democracy, social economy, and education. Rather than funding individual projects, it emphasizes multi-year institutional support, viewing itself as a "learning organization" that provides what it terms "social risk capital"—backing innovative approaches alongside coaching and networking opportunities.
Currently, the foundation is undertaking significant infrastructure expansion. A major construction project in Lörrach-Brombach began in December 2025, creating a "House for All" that will consolidate the foundation's scattered administrative operations while providing workshop spaces, a café, and dedicated facilities for a local medical practice.
Hans Schöpflin received the German Founder Prize in 2020 for his philanthropic work.