Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation

Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation

The Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation was established in 1956 under the will of Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian. It maintains headquarters in Lisbon along with delegations in Paris and London. The foundation runs grant programs and direct projects in humanities, education, and sciences while preserving extensive art collections. Its investment approach covers public equities and limited private holdings. Confirmed positions include long-term stakes in EDP on Euronext Lisbon and Kongsberg Gruppen on the Oslo Stock Exchange. Past private investments encompassed Partex Oil and Gas, which was fully exited, and commitments to Portuguese vehicles such as MSM Fund and Inter-Risco. Geographic reach centers on Europe with additional activity in global grant regions including PALOP countries. The organization employs 866 professionals and maintains cultural assets including the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and Centro de Arte Moderna. It participates in networks such as Philea and the Network of European Foundations. In 2024 it sponsored the Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity focused on climate and equity topics. Governance rests with a board of trustees that includes family descendants and independent members. The investment committee operates separately from grant decisions, creating a clear division between capital management and philanthropic distribution.