At ERSTE Foundation, we have been committed to supporting the vibrant civil society of which we are a part from the very beginning. We believe in the power of taking action and do so based on a simple yet revolutionary idea that is embedded in our DNA: prosperity and independence should not be the privilege of a select few but should be accessible to everyone. That is why, together with our partners, we work to strengthening democracy and financial health—using a wide range of approaches, but always with the conviction that change is possible.

Throughout my career, I have relied on one principle: bringing the right people together is what enables creativity, innovation, fun – and impact. At the heart of this approach, however, lies a strong and unquestionable sense of purpose. Reading the founding charter still gives me the feeling that we have a very clear reason for existing: Supporting people by giving them access to the means to live a safe, good, free and stable life is what motivates me personally and drives ERSTE Foundation as an organisation.