In 2003, we established the Foundation at the Koszalin University of Technology because we wanted to use the potential of science to change the world around us for the better. As scientists and engineers, we wanted to act wisely, based on objective facts and innovative solutions.

From the beginning, we have also been guided by attentiveness to nature and the needs of others. In this way, we implement successive exceptional projects that contribute to solving local problems and the sustainable development of small communities.

 

 

 We act to have a good impact:

 

In cooperation with public entities, the business sector, and other organizations, we undertake research, implementation, and development activities.

Since January 2003, we have completed over 100 unique projects worth over PLN 200 million and supported over 500 local social initiatives with a total value of nearly PLN 50 million.

We successfully implement local, national, and international projects.

Recently, our “Good Support” project won the prestigious European Commission REGIOSTARS competition – as the best project in Europe – setting a new direction for cohesion policy actions.

In 2019, we won the title of “Best Beneficiary of the Regional Operational Program of the West Pomeranian Voivodeship” in a competition announced by the Managing Authority and the Intermediate Body in the Regional Operational Program of the West Pomeranian Voivodeship.

In 2013, our project “Choose the Future – innovative tools supporting social intervention” won the main prize of the Minister of Regional Development – as the best investment in people.

We also received an award in the competition of the Academy for the Development of Philanthropy in Poland and the Polish-American Freedom Foundation for the most effective Local Grant Organization.

We are proud to have received these and over 30 other awards and distinctions, as a reflection of our effectiveness, integrity, and impact.

We implement lasting changes

We operate with care for nature, people’s needs and their communities, and the high quality of our projects. That’s why we consciously take on challenges in selected areas:

ECONOMY – we give a chance for independence

We develop the activities of social economy entities and conscious entrepreneurship. We improve budget management skills and help set rational financial goals. We promote proximity economy and local economic patriotism.

ECOLOGY – we make a good impact

We promote practical solutions for blue-green infrastructure. We implement renewable energy sources and the circular economy. Through publications and workshops, we showcase the practical aspects of eco-development and available climate solutions. We conduct unique classes for children, youth and adults.

TOURISM AND CULTURE – we drive development

We initiate sustainable and active tourism accessible to all. We support events that promote the exchange of views and broaden horizons. We showcase unique trails and discover local resources and attractions. We create truly friendly public spaces.

EDUCATION – we strengthen those who are growing

We provide non-formal education based on active knowledge and skills acquisition and practical career counseling. We are an institution that contributes to equalizing life opportunities for children and youth and inspires adults to take bold development steps.

SOCIAL INCLUSION and MIGRATION – we support each other

We implement modern solutions in care services for dependent persons and neighborly assistance. We support safe and responsible migration. We raise awareness of self-development and facilitate sustainable reintegration. We provide assistance to ensure aspiring workers have decent work and a good quality of life.

RESPONSIBLE COMMUNITIES – we unleash positive energy

We support local leaders, local organizations and local authorities in implementing bold development actions. We organize local grant competitions, advise, train and animate. We involve people, companies and organizations in local social revitalization activities.

we achieve more by working together

Delivering our unique and lasting solutions is made possible by collaborating with partners who have diverse perspectives and exceptional expertise. The business sector supports us with the specialized skills of their employees and includes the Foundation in donation and discount programs. This provides us with access to modern technologies and industry expert knowledge. We have gained the trust of small and large organizations, such as Trello, Bryntum, Adobe, Google, UBS.

ability to collaborate

The key to the Foundation’s success and strength is our ability to collaborate. Each year, we work with dozens of local organizations to develop important projects and operate more effectively locally.

We believe that by combining our products, resources, and passions, we can make a global impact. That’s why we also operate in national and international non-profit networks:

Since 2006 – we have been part of the national network of Local Grant Organizations of the “Act Locally” program (since 2012, we are an accredited Local Development Organization).

Since 2009, we have been a member of the international Aflatoun network and part of the global movement for socio-financial education for children and youth.

In 2012, we obtained the “Golden Certificate” from the Center for European Projects – for meeting the standards of the Regional ESF Centers network.

Since 2014, we have been operating in the multi-sector partnership SZOWES. We are the largest Ministry-accredited social economy center in the West Pomeranian Voivodeship. In 2021, our SZOWES partnership was invited to the European network Social Economy Europe.

Since 2018, we have been operating in a partnership of 4 Micro-grant Operators from the Civic Initiatives Fund NOWEFIO Program for 2021-2030 in the West Pomeranian Voivodeship.

operating with integrity

We are politically and institutionally independent. We have our own capital reserves and auxiliary business activities. In 2008, from a financial award from the Polish-American Freedom Foundation, we began building an endowment fund.

Our activities are completely transparent; we prepare annual financial statements and activity reports. We submit them to both the relevant Court and the Tax Office. Additionally, each year we send a full activity report to the Minister of the Environment, and every month we present tax settlements from separate business and statutory activities to the institutions required by law.

We have introduced internal control mechanisms in the organization through the division of tasks into 2 bodies: an independent Council responsible for supervision and control, and the Management Board – the executive body. We keep full accounts, and their verification is undertaken by specialized external companies. We have adopted financial security policy procedures, personal data processing security policies, and rules for implementing our own projects. We comply with the guidelines given in ISO 26000 and have an internal code of ethics that prevents conflicts of interest and prevents discrimination against our employees and clients.

Our financial statements and activity reports are public and available online.

we are in this journey together, because…

We are a diverse team, but our way of working is defined by shared values:

Respect – we treat others as we want to be treated.

Innovation – we strive for uniqueness, seeking simple solutions.

Efficiency – we focus on lasting results achieved at a low cost.

Transparency – we understand the openness of our actions as a duty.

Openness – we engage all stakeholders in creative solutions.

Responsibility – we keep our word, taking care of the common good and preventing evil.

Family – our work culture promotes balancing family and professional life, because work is our passion.