European Network of Enterprise Foundations

This network brings together many of Europe’s largest enterprise foundations (foundations being a majority shareholder in one of more companies) with the objective of increasing awareness of the enterprise foundation model and its benefits, and providing a forum for cooperation, sharing and learnings for European enterprise foundations.

Vision

We believe that the establishment of enterprise foundations has proven over time to be a model that brings long term value to both businesses and society. We seek to promote ownership with a view on longevity, sustainability and creating shared value for all stakeholders.

Themes

Longevity and sustainability of ownership and philanthropy
Sustainable business activities
Raising awareness on the enterprise foundation model

Activities

Building knowledge, data and research around enterprise foundations in Europe
Promoting the enterprise foundation model and its benefits for society
Monitoring, reporting and advocating on EU policy topics of interests with monthly calls to discuss with the Steering Committee
Providing a forum for peer-exchange, connecting and learning on topics of interests for the participating enterprise foundations with biannual meetings with members of the network, policymakers and external stakeholders
Participating in external events linked to the topic of enterprise foundations
Providing input into the European Law Institute project on Enterprise Foundations in Europe, which aims to develop a model enterprise foundation law
Expanding the network to ensure a geographical wide and strong representation

How to engage

Join the Steering Committee

This core group of members collaboratively shapes and implements the working assignment, making sure that ambitions and resources align. Network Members can join the Steering Committee on a voluntary basis.

Join the Network

Each enterprise foundation that is a member of the Network is a long-term owner of one or several active companies and has the following characteristics:

Irrevocable endowment and independence: Is a separate legal entity. The affairs of the foundation are irrevocably and clearly separated from the personal affairs of the founder(s).
Responsible purpose-driven ownership of an active business company: In general, holds the majority of the shares or has a controlling influence in one or more active business companies. Has a clear purpose and aims to be a responsible long-term owner of the company/companies it owns.
Philanthropy: Pursues philanthropic activities that are financed through the income generated from active companies owned by the enterprise foundation and other investments.
Size: Currently, to be members of ENEF, foundations shall have total assets on the balance sheet amounting to EUR 1 billion or the equivalent amount in any other currency