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In 1982, Georg W. Claussen established the Claussen Foundation to support talented young people. The occasion was the 100th anniversary of Beiersdorf AG, where he had worked for decades as Chairman of the Executive Board and Supervisory Board. The Foundation's current impact is also due to the courageous and generous bequest made by Ebba Simon, Georg W. Claussen's cousin, in her will in 1999. Since then, the Foundation has also borne her name in its title. With its operational independence, the potential of the foundation has been able to develop ever further since 2012, and it finds lively expression in numerous scholarship programs and project support in science, education and culture.

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Our Principles

Courage. Trust. Togetherness.

The Claussen-Simon Foundation supports talented young individuals at various stages of their educational, academic, professional, and personal development. Courage, trust, and togetherness — these three values define our community and shape the work of our foundation.

The Foundation and its Community

The Claussen-Simon Foundation is politically and denominationally independent. As an active participant in civil society, we are committed to upholding the principles of a liberal-democratic order. We engage with one another openly, honestly, and respectfully, fostering cooperation and constructive dialogue. We treat each other as equals, and our scholarship recipients are explicitly invited to participate in the foundation's events.

We strive to cultivate a community built on trust, honesty, and integrity. We expect respect, openness, and tolerance from all members. Our scholarship holders come from diverse backgrounds in terms of gender identity, sexual orientation, nationality, ethnic or social origin, religion, language, education, and more. We view this diversity as a valuable asset that enriches us all. Different perspectives are welcomed and respected.

As a non-profit organization, we recognize our responsibility toward future generations. That's why we strive to contribute to an open and just society. We support lifelong education through scholarships, as well as through funding research, teaching, and cultural initiatives. We are committed to carrying out our work in the most sustainable and resource-conscious way possible.

Objectives and Programs

At the core of our foundation’s mission is the individual support of talented and dedicated young people through scholarships. Beyond financial assistance, we offer an extensive non-material support program. Our scholarship recipients benefit from a wide-ranging seminar program tailored to their needs, including lectures and workshops. We also provide numerous opportunities for personal exchange among scholars, such as regional group meetings across Germany.

We highly value the courage to step beyond one’s field and comfort zone, to explore new paths, and to embrace interdisciplinary exchange. Equally important to us are the willingness to engage in dialogue, openness in personal interactions, genuine interest in others and their perspectives, and a strong sense of commitment to the foundation's community.

Commitment to Good Scientific Practice

Scientific inquiry is based on systematic and verifiable methods. Transparent and honest conduct— including the responsible use of AI-based systems — is essential for maintaining trust among researchers and for fostering public confidence in science. Therefore, receiving a scholarship comes with the expectation that recipients will pursue their studies or research with a commitment to the principles of good scientific practice and at a high academic standard.

I consider it both an honour and a joy, as Chairman of the Board, to help shape the future of the Claussen-Simon Foundation in close collaboration with my fellow board members. This role carries with it a deep sense of responsibility to purposefully advance the foundation’s success. The lively exchange with the team and our scholarship holders constantly reminds me how important and meaningful our work truly is.

Carl Johann Claussen
Chairman

Foundation Objectives

The foundation's objective is the promotion of science, research, and education as well as art and culture, with a special focus on science and young scientists in Hamburg. 

The goals of the foundation are realized in particular by:

  • the promotion of gifted young people through research projects and studies of all disciplines.
  • the acquisition of funds in accordance with § 58 No. 1 AO for the promotion of science and research for the realisation of the objectives of another tax-privileged entity or for the realization of tax-privileged objectives by a public corporation.
  • granting scholarships to especially talented young people.

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Courage, trust, and connection – in the encounters with our scholarship holders and in our work, it becomes clear that these three values are essential. They characterize our foundation's community and deeply shape the way we operate.

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Courage

Courage can be a response to challenges. It also plays a crucial role in personal growth—whether it's the courage to express one's own opinions, try new things, step out of one's comfort zone, push personal boundaries, or shape one's own future. It is through such moments that we grow—task by task, step by step.

We encourage young people to boldly explore their potential and take the initiative in shaping their lives. This journey may often begin with an application for a scholarship and may lead to completing school qualifications, studying abroad, engaging in academic research, or venturing into creative new territories. The courageous act of overcoming obstacles, sharing experiences, or thinking across disciplines by one individual can serve as an inspiration for many others. Courage is contagious — and it sparks the desire to create.

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Trust

Trust is the basis of our foundation's actions and our diverse community. Those who trust themselves, believe in the power of their own actions, and extend trust to others build lasting connections and authentic relationships, fostering personal growth. Experiencing trust empowers individuals to achieve remarkable things and accomplishments. Giving trust opens doors and even the smallest act of trust can echo far.

This belief underpins our confidence. Each scholarship is an act of trust: it embodies a strong belief in and confidence in the recipients, trusting that they will succeed on their journey. We are also grateful for the trust young people place in us: when they share their stories, their hopes, their dreams, and allow us to witness their development. From this mutual trust, courage grows—it is the foundation upon which inspiring encounters and lasting collaborations are build.

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Connections

Our community thrives on interactions with our scholars and alumni, enriched by the diversity of their backgrounds, skills, and goals. This multifaceted collaboration reveals that the whole is far greater than the sum of its parts—a profoundly enduring experience. When people from various disciplines with different interests and experiences come together, unexpected connections emerge. New ideas take flight, possibilities arise, and horizons expand. The insights and mutual inspiration gained from this experience accompany the scholars into their future and new contexts – and in doing so, they shape our tomorrow.