About The Rothschild Foundation (Europe)

The Rothschild family has a long tradition of philanthropy, starting with Mayer Amschel Rothschild (1744-1812) and his five sons. From the very beginning their philanthropy was concerned with ensuring equal opportunities for disadvantaged groups across Europe. Other areas of support have included health care, housing and education. Members of the family have sought to advance civil rights and to bridge cultural rifts within society. Early initiatives, such as the design and establishment of public housing projects, have provided models for innovative philanthropy and best practices, helping to shape public policy.

Today, a number of Rothschild family foundations continue to operate in a wide range of fields, including medical science, housing, education, academic excellence and social development.

The Rothschild Foundation (Europe) continues this philanthropic tradition. A UK registered charity, it was established in 2000 as Hanadiv Charitable Foundation, under the Chairmanship of Lord Rothschild. This Foundation’s particular aim is to support and strengthen Jewish life in Europe. Operating in over 40 European countries, it has funded initiatives across a range of areas, including the development of the Jewish culture of today; Jewish identity and communal life; the academic study of Jewish history and its contribution to European society; and the preservation of Jewish sites and documents attesting to 1,000 years of Jewish life in Europe. The Foundation also supports charities that work to advance equality and civil rights, either within or in collaboration with the Jewish communities of their respective countries.    

In its grant making, the Foundation places emphasis on excellence and infrastructural development. It seeks to contribute to the long-term viability of the institutions it supports and to develop the expertise of individuals.

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