Last year, the Schöpflin Stiftung, in cooperation with the Kinnings Foundation, launched the Flow Fund for Eastern Germany for the first time – a fund designed to strengthen democratic participation and social cohesion in the region. The approach is innovative in the philanthropic sector: It is not the foundations that decide where the money goes, but the so-called Flow Funders. These are young engaged citizens living in Eastern Germany who are active in civil society or social entrepreneurship. They have deep knowledge of the challenges and needs in their local communities. This diversity of perspectives ensures that funding reaches organizations in Eastern Germany that often lack access to established grant programs. Young people qualify as Flow Funders through participation in the »Kinnings Academy«, a leadership program for emerging talents offered by the Kinnings Foundation in Eastern Germany.

The Flow Funders develop their own criteria for distributing the funds. This is preceded by a multi-month training program, where they receive expert input on philanthropy and funding strategies from external speakers from various organizations. The foundations provide guidance and support in developing grant strategies, while also offering space for reflection and exchange.

Since October 2025, the second cohort of Flow Funders has been undergoing the training program. They will then select organizations and projects to receive funding. Each Flow Funder can allocate up to 25,000 euros to initiatives in Eastern Germany. As compensation for their work, they receive a stipend of 5,000 euros.

In the first funding round, a total of 225,000 euros was distributed by nine Flow Funders to 38 organizations and projects. Thanks to additional supporters, including the Alexander Gruner Stiftung, the AKB Stiftung, and the Nordmetall-Stiftung, the second round now offers a total of 425,000 euros, which will be allocated by 17 Flow Funders.

Further information about the Flow Fund can be found here.