Set Up Your Foundation in Geneva
2. Get clear on your project
What is the foundation’s purpose?
➡️Reflect on what it is you want to change in society. Your purpose may be charitable, cultural, scientific, social, environmental, or educational, for example. This purpose must be clearly stated in the statutes (by-laws), as it will guide all the future actions of your foundation.
Who will benefit from your foundation’s programmes/donations?
➡️Identify your foundation’s beneficiaries: a specific population (such as children, students, or the elderly), a vulnerable group, a cause, or a sector. The more precisely the target group is defined, the more effective and coherent your project will be.
Do you have sufficient starting capital?
➡️You must either provide a minimum capital of CHF 10,000 or demonstrate that, after its creation, the foundation will receive sufficient financial contributions. However, it is strongly recommended to aim for an initial capital of around CHF 50,000 in order to cover administrative costs, governance, the first activities, and to demonstrate a serious and long-term commitment.