The Jacobs Foundation rarely considers unsolicited applications and spontaneous project proposals. Most of our projects are developed in close cooperation with partners that we have actively identified. However, if you believe that your research or activities match the Foundation’s approach and priorities very closely, you may send us a preliminary project proposal.

Before filing a preliminary proposal, please observe the Jacobs Foundation exclusion criteria:

As a rule the Jacobs Foundation does not consider external applications for: 

• Individual scholarship or tuition assistance
• Large scale fundraising drives
• Supplements to travel costs or scholarships granted by another agency
• Costs of printing
• Operating and recurring costs
• Acquisition, supplementation, or maintenance of collections (including exhibitions)
• Construction, extension, maintenance of buildings (incl. interior infrastructure)
• Equipment to be used in therapy
• Development and testing activities related to scientific issues which have already been resolved
• Exploitation of patents
• Start-ups of scientific institutions associated with specific political, confessional or world views
• Global increases to budgets or making up for budget deficits
• Repayment of pre-finance granted by another agency
• Investments related to weapons, drugs or alcohol. 

Operational costs are only covered within the framework of a concrete project. It has to be clear from the outset that these costs will be otherwise covered, should funding from the Foundation cease. An overhead of 10% will be considered. Equipment will only be covered if it is necessary in order to carry out the project. 

In general, the Foundation will not step in to replace other organizations which have ceased funding. Refused proposals cannot be submitted. 

Please state whether you are also currently submitting your proposal to other foundations or grant giving agencies. List their names and whether you have applied for full or joint funding.