Bertelsmann Stiftung

Bertelsmann Stiftung

Reinhard Mohn created Bertelsmann Stiftung in 1977 as an independent operating foundation. The entity channels proceeds from the family's controlling stake in Bertelsmann SE & Co. KGaA into reform initiatives focused on education, democracy, and social participation. Brigitte Mohn and Liz Mohn continue to shape governance alongside external trustees. The foundation allocates capital across bonds, listed equities, alternative investments, and cash to support ongoing operations and project funding. Confirmed holdings include a position in Keep Inc. reported in 2023. Geographic reach centers on Germany and extends to Spain through Fundación Bertelsmann and the United States through Bertelsmann Foundation North America. Capital supports direct projects rather than external fund commitments. The organization employs 330 professionals and maintains three Berlin properties used for events and representation. It created the Liz Mohn Foundation in 2023 and participates in Philea and the Association of German Foundations. In January 2025 the foundation appeared at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting to discuss data convergence and SDG financing. Ownership of 80.9 percent of Bertelsmann SE & Co. KGaA through Johannes Mohn GmbH creates a direct link between the media operating company and the foundation's mandate. This architecture channels dividend flows into policy work without intermediary fund vehicles.