StiftungsHafen
A safe harbor needs solid structures and clear responsibilities. We create the foundation on which your foundation can operate reliably in the long term.
The Idea
Together, we refine the purpose, mission, and goals of your foundation. This creates a framework that reflects your personal story and values.
The Harbor
We provide the fiduciary structure: legally sound, tax-recognized, and organized so that your foundation remains sustainable in the long term.
The Pilot
We coordinate banks, asset managers, as well as tax and legal advisors. You maintain the overview while all parties work together in a coordinated manner.
The Quay
We structure the contribution of the foundation’s assets—during your lifetime and for inheritance planning—and develop an investment framework that fits the purpose and time horizon of your foundation.
The Crew
We take care of the ongoing administration: accounting, payment processing, annual financial statements, reports on the use of funds, and the preparation of board meetings and reports.
Who Carries Responsibility at StiftungsHafen
Behind StiftungsHafen Treuhandgesellschaft are Dirk Bengen, Jörg Grotheer and Michael Lürßen. Together we combine expertise in foundation law, taxation and asset management in the support of foundations.
Why
StiftungsHafen?
Many people assume that a foundation only makes sense with assets worth millions. Our experience shows otherwise: a legally dependent trust foundation can work reliably and create impact even with significantly smaller amounts—provided that the structure and administration are well designed.
At StiftungsHafen, we work with you to develop a lean and suitable structure in which your assets can create long-term impact—regardless of whether the foundation’s assets are large or relatively modest.
Your First
Investment Maneuver
At the beginning are your goals, your family situation, and your assets. In the orientation meeting, we clarify whether and how a foundation is the right path for you.
Vision and Goals
We identify your motivations, your cause close to heart, and the role the foundation should play in your overall wealth and succession planning.
The Right Structure
We explain the differences and use cases of various foundation types and examine which fiduciary solution suits you best.
A Clear Roadmap
You receive a structured overview of the next steps—from the statutes and donation agreement to ongoing administration.
Free Initial Consultation
Speak with us directly about your foundation idea.
The
Foundation
Course
We translate complex foundation law into a clear process: from concept and establishment to ongoing support.
01
Docking at the Harbor
We structure your goals, clarify open questions, and create a solid basis for decision-making for the foundation’s establishment.
02
Route Planning
We develop the statutes, trust agreement, and administrative arrangements. Governing bodies, decision-making processes, and investment guidelines are aligned with your foundation’s purpose.
03
Launch Phase
We support coordination with the tax office, assist with accounts and payment processes, and take over operational administration once the foundation begins its work.
Our Hanseatic Approach
– The Harbor as a Metaphor for Our Work
A harbor stands for safety, order, and reliability. This is also how we understand our work as trustees: we create a clearly structured framework in which foundations can be managed securely over the long term—with proper documentation and clear decision-making processes.
Our Hanseatic approach means commercial solidity, restraint in presentation, and clarity in substance. We reduce complexity, translate legal and tax requirements into understandable structures, and ensure that the effort and benefits of a foundation remain in a balanced relationship.
For us, the harbor is the image of the role we take on: foundations find a protected berth with us, while always being able to initiate new projects, adjust priorities, or incorporate additional funds. As trustees, we remain consistently by their side and ensure that the course and rules are maintained.
What You Can Expect From Us
Specialized Trust Foundations
We focus on legally dependent, charitable foundations—with clear structures and reliable administration.
Professional Support
We combine legal, tax, and financial perspectives and work closely with specialized law firms and tax advisors.
Everything from One Source
From statutes and donation agreements to accounting, reporting, and communication with the tax office, you receive comprehensive support.
Tailored Solutions
We develop foundation models that fit your personal goals, your assets, and your family situation.
Legal and Tax Security
We ensure a well-structured setup that complies with charitable law requirements and remains sustainable in the long term.
Clear Reports and Transparency
You always maintain a clear overview of your foundation’s assets, returns, projects, and funding decisions.
What is our compass?
Responsibility for Assets
We see foundation assets as a long-term commitment—toward the founders and the projects being supported.
Sustainable Impact
Foundations are designed for the long term. We create structures that are not focused on quick success but on impact across generations.
Reliable Structures
Clear processes, proper documentation, and well-organized finances are not optional extras for us—they are the foundation of effective foundation management.
Hanseatic Approach
Clarity, reliability and a sober view of opportunities and risks characterize our work – without grand pronouncements – but with high standards of quality.
Ready to set your foundation on course?
If you are considering establishing a foundation or reorganizing an existing structure, we will work with you to develop a suitable framework. In an initial conversation, we clarify which type of foundation is suitable for you and what the specific path might look like.
Focus on Trust Foundations
We specialize in charitable trust foundations.
Clear Rules, Clear Responsibilities
We ensure reliable structures and stable governance.
A Dedicated Point of Contact
You work with an experienced team that supports your foundation over the long term.