New donor wall makes philanthropy visible

Since last week, the donor wall has been located opposite the coffee bar near the main entrance of ETH’s main building.

The wall recognises donors whose significant contributions support the advancement of research and education at ETH Zurich. Donors are acknowledged in accordance with the University’s applicable recognition guidelines.

Philanthropy creates additional impact

Private funding – both major gifts and smaller contributions – is an important complement to ETH’s core public funding. It enables additional impact in areas that could otherwise not be realised, or only at a later stage.

Examples include supporting outstanding talent and young entrepreneurs through Excellence Scholarships and Pioneer Fellowships, as well as providing seed funding for forward-looking fields of research such as Earth observation.

Private funding also makes it possible to establish professorships in various fields, realise infrastructure projects such as the highly specialised physics laboratory building on the Hönggerberg campus, and launch initiatives of particular relevance to society, such as the Einstein School of Public Policy.

ETH uses private funding for its designated purposes, transparently and in accordance with applicable rules. Crucially, the University’s academic freedom and independence remain fully safeguarded at all times.

Recognising commitment

With the donor wall, ETH and the ETH Foundation thank individuals, foundations and companies for their commitment. At the same time, it shows members of the ETH community and visitors alike how philanthropy contributes to maintaining the University’s position at the forefront of research and education.