About the UEF

Mission and vision

The UEF is a springboard for scientific talent. We bring together researchers, funding and ideas to create the breakthroughs of tomorrow.

We envisage a world in which science, education and society reinforce one another to solve societal challenges. The UEF fosters research talent in an open and inclusive environment and builds a connected community of alumni, partners and funders. In this way, we strengthen the University of Groningen’s position as a Fifth Generation University: a knowledge institution that provides direction at local, national and international levels.

Ubbo Emmius

The University of Groningen has been inextricably linked with the city of Groningen for over four centuries. The UEF bears the name of Ubbo Emmius, the university’s first rector magnificus. Discover who Ubbo Emmius was and how the UEF continues his contribution to science in the 21st century.

4 themes

We allocate our resources as effectively and efficiently as possible, with the UEF board advised by an independent spending committee. We fund projects within four themes of great societal urgency that align strategically with the university’s priorities. These themes therefore also serve as our compass for fundraising and communication. The fund adapts to any new themes and priorities set by the University of Groningen:

1. Health and well-being

2. Energy and climate

3. Digitalisation and AI

4. Sustainable society

Annual reports

Interested in our annual reports? Visit our page on annual reports.

Board

The UEF is an independent foundation with its own board. The board is responsible for the governance of our foundation. The board determines the fund’s strategy in the areas of asset management, expenditure and development. To this end, an Investment Advisory Committee, an Audit Committee and an Expenditure Advisory Committee have been established. The board is unpaid: the members contribute their time and expertise on a voluntary basis.