Introduction
The Falling Walls Foundation is a non-profit organisation based in Berlin, Germany, dedicated to advancing global science, innovation, and societal progress by fostering dialogue, collaboration, and breakthrough thinking across disciplines. Inspired by the historic fall of the Berlin Wall on 9 November 1989, the foundation asks the guiding question: “Which are the next walls to fall?” — focusing on ideas and discoveries that can transform humanity’s future.
History and Background
The Falling Walls Foundation was founded in 2009 on the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. What began as a single conference in Berlin has grown into a global platform that convenes scientists, innovators, policy makers, entrepreneurs, and civil society leaders to explore the frontiers of research and societal transformation.
The foundation’s work draws on the symbolic legacy of the Berlin Wall’s collapse — representing freedom of thought, boundary-breaking ideas, and the relentless pursuit of progress beyond barriers.
Mission and Purpose
The mission of the Falling Walls Foundation is to advance breakthrough thinking that addresses the most pressing challenges of our time — from climate change and global health to technology, culture, and policy. It seeks to:
- Enable scientists and innovators to present their work to global audiences
- Facilitate dialogue across sectors — science, industry, policy, and society
- Break down barriers to knowledge exchange and interdisciplinary collaboration
- Inspire public engagement with research and innovation
- Celebrate outstanding breakthroughs with international visibility
By connecting people and ideas, the foundation positions science as a catalyst for positive societal change and sustainable futures.
Governance and Structure
The Falling Walls Foundation is legally established as a non-profit entity (Falling Walls Foundation gGmbH) headquartered in Berlin, Germany. It collaborates with governments, academic institutions, philanthropic partners, international organisations, and private sector sponsors to support its programmes and events.
Its governance includes strategic leadership that guides the foundation’s programme design, outreach, and global impact, while ensuring integrity and academic excellence in all activities.
Funding and Grants
Participation and Open Calls
While the Falling Walls Foundation itself is not a traditional grant-making foundation, it opens competitive global calls for:
- Falling Walls Science Breakthroughs of the Year — recognising outstanding scientific discoveries across multiple categories
- Falling Walls Engage — celebrating innovative science communication and public engagement projects
- Falling Walls Venture — spotlighting science-based start-ups and entrepreneurial innovation
- Female Science Talents — empowering women in science with mentorship, training, and awards
Scientists, research teams, start-ups, NGOs, universities, and innovators worldwide are invited to submit pioneering projects that demonstrate impact, innovation and breakthrough potential. Winners and finalists are showcased at the annual Falling Walls Science Summit and related events.
Fellowships and Networking
In addition to discovery awards, the foundation also offers:
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International Science Journalism Fellowships — supporting journalists to report on cutting-edge science and innovation
These opportunities provide exposure, professional development, and access to networks of global leaders.
Major Programs and Initiatives
Falling Walls Science Summit
The flagship event of the foundation is the Falling Walls Science Summit, held annually in Berlin around 9 November. It brings together hundreds of global leaders from academia, industry, government, and civil society to debate and celebrate breakthroughs in science and innovation.
Key components of the summit include:
- Falling Walls Pitches — short presentations by emerging talents
- Falling Walls Circle — high-level discussions and debates
- Falling Walls Science Breakthroughs — awards ceremony for major breakthroughs
Specialized Platforms
The foundation also runs a range of specialised programmes that connect science with audiences and opportunities:
- Falling Walls Lab — a forum for early-career researchers and innovators to pitch ideas and connect with peers and experts
- Falling Walls Engage — supporting projects that creatively engage the public with science
- Falling Walls Venture — highlighting science start-ups with breakthrough potential
- Female Science Talents — empowering women researchers with mentorship, workshops, networking and visibility opportunities
These programmes collectively advance inclusive, interdisciplinary science leadership.
Impact and Examples of Work Supported
Since its inception, the Falling Walls Foundation has:
- Convened scientists, world-class thinkers, and innovators from over 600 institutions globally.
- Recognised breakthrough research in life sciences, physical sciences, social sciences, engineering, art & science, and more.
- Supported science communicators and start-ups in gaining global visibility and networking opportunities.
Laureates and finalists from these programmes go on to influence policy discussions, attract investment, and expand their breakthroughs into real-world applications across sectors.
Conclusion
The Falling Walls Foundation is a dynamic global hub at the intersection of science, innovation, and society. Inspired by the historical symbolism of breaking down barriers, it fosters a culture of breakthrough thinking that connects disciplines, empowers innovators, and magnifies the impact of scientific solutions for a more sustainable, equitable and informed world.
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