Activities & Support
How we operate and the initiatives we support.
How the Foundation Operates
The Fondation Orbis Pictus fulfils its mission primarily through the provision of grants and other forms of support to institutions and individuals whose work aligns with our three pillars. We do not operate programmes directly; rather, we partner with established organisations that possess the expertise and operational capacity to implement initiatives effectively.
Our approach is characterised by long-term commitment, careful due diligence, and ongoing relationship with grant recipients. We favour sustained partnerships over one-time grants, believing that meaningful impact requires continuity of support and the trust that develops through extended collaboration.
The Foundation's decision-making processes are rigorous and deliberate. All significant grants are subject to review by relevant committees and, in many cases, external expert assessment. This approach ensures that resources are deployed thoughtfully and in accordance with our charitable purposes.
Types of Supported Initiatives
Project Grants
Funding for specific, time-limited projects that advance objectives within our three pillars. Projects typically range from one to five years in duration and are subject to milestone-based review.
Institutional Support
Core support for institutions whose missions align closely with Foundation priorities. Such support may be unrestricted, allowing recipient organisations to deploy resources according to their own judgement.
Individual Awards
Fellowships, scholarships, and artist residencies that support individual achievement and development. Recipients are typically nominated through partner institutions rather than direct application.
Capital Grants
Support for significant capital investments including building construction, major conservation projects, and acquisition of significant assets for public benefit.
Emergency Support
Rapid-response funding for urgent humanitarian needs and cultural heritage emergencies. Such support is deployed through established partner organisations with operational capacity.
Research Funding
Support for scholarly and scientific research, including publication costs, field research expenses, and doctoral stipends for projects of exceptional promise.
Collaboration Approach
The Foundation values partnership over patronage. We seek to work with organisations and individuals who share our values and whose expertise complements our resources. Effective collaboration requires mutual respect, clear communication, and alignment of objectives.
Initial Dialogue
Relationships typically begin with informal dialogue to establish alignment of purpose and explore potential areas of collaboration.
Proposal Development
Prospective partners develop detailed proposals in consultation with Foundation staff, ensuring clarity of objectives, methods, and expected outcomes.
Due Diligence
All significant proposals undergo thorough review, including assessment of organisational capacity, financial health, and track record.
Ongoing Partnership
Approved initiatives are supported through regular communication, milestone reviews, and flexibility in response to changing circumstances.
Funding & Partnership Philosophy
The Foundation's resources are finite, and our commitment to permanence requires careful stewardship of capital. We deploy resources thoughtfully, favouring quality over quantity and depth of engagement over breadth of portfolio.
Guiding Principles
- Preference for long-term commitments
- Support for established organisations
- Alignment with Foundation pillars
- Measurable outcomes and accountability
- Geographic and thematic diversity
- Leverage through co-funding partnerships
The Foundation does not accept unsolicited proposals. Initial contact should be made through the enquiry process outlined on our Contact page, and only those enquiries demonstrating clear alignment with Foundation priorities will be invited to develop formal proposals.