StiftungsHafen
A safe harbor requires solid structures and clear responsibilities. We provide the foundation on which your foundation can operate reliably in the long term.
The Idea
We refine the purpose, mission statement, and goals of your foundation together. This creates a framework that aligns with your personal story and values.
The Harbor
We provide the fiduciary structure: legally sound, tax-recognized, and organizationally set up so that your foundation is sustainable in the long term.
The Pilot
We coordinate banks, asset managers, and tax and legal advisors. You keep an overview while all parties work together in a coordinated manner.
The Quay
We structure the transfer of the foundation’s assets—both during your lifetime and in your estate—and develop an investment framework that suits the purpose and time horizon of your foundation.
The Crew
We handle ongoing administration: accounting, payment transactions, annual financial statements, reports on fund usage, as well as preparation of board meetings and reports.
Who takes responsibility at StiftungsHafen
Behind StiftungsHafen Treuhandgesellschaft mbH are Dirk Bengen, Jörg Grotheer, and Michael Lürßen. Together, we combine expertise in foundation law, taxation, and asset management to support legally dependent foundations.
Why
StiftungsHafen?
Many assume that a foundation only makes sense with assets in the millions. Our experience shows otherwise: a legally dependent trust foundation can operate reliably and create impact even with significantly smaller amounts—provided that structure and administration are well thought out.
At StiftungsHafen, we work with you to develop a lean, tailored structure in which your assets can have a long-term impact—regardless of whether the foundation’s endowment is large or relatively modest.
Your First
Navigational Move
At the beginning, we consider your goals, family situation, and assets. In the orientation meeting, we clarify if and how a foundation is the right path for you.
Vision and Goals
We capture your motivations, your core focus, and the role of the foundation within your overall wealth and succession planning.
The Right Structure
We explain the differences and applications of various foundation types and determine which fiduciary solution fits you best.
A Clear Roadmap
You receive a structured overview of the next steps—from the articles of association and donation agreement to ongoing administration.
Free Initial Consultation
Speak directly with us about your foundation idea.
The
Foundation
Course
We translate complex foundation law into a clear process: from conception to establishment to ongoing management.
01
Investing in 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 articles of association, donation agreement (conditional donation), and administrative agreements. Organs, decision-making processes, and investment guidelines are aligned with your foundation’s purpose.
03
Launch Phase
We assist with coordination with the tax office, support account setup 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 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 reasonable balance.
The harbor is our metaphor for the role we take on: foundations find a protected berth with us, but can always launch new projects, adjust priorities, or receive additional funds. Throughout, we remain a constant partner as trustees, ensuring that the course and rules are followed.
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 a Single Source
From articles of association and donation agreements to accounting, reporting, and communication with the tax office, you receive seamless support.
Tailored Solutions
We develop foundation models that fit your personal goals, assets, and family situation.
Legal and Tax Security
We ensure proper structuring that complies with charitable law and remains sustainable in the long term.
Clear Reporting and Transparency
You maintain full oversight of your foundation’s assets, income, projects, and funding decisions at all times.
What drives us
Responsibility for Assets
We view foundation assets as a long-term obligation—toward both the founders and the projects being supported.
Sustainable Impact
Foundations are designed to last. We create structures that are not aimed at quick success, but at impact across generations.
Reliable Structures
Clear processes, proper documentation, and orderly finances are for us not optional extras, but the foundation of all good foundation work.
Hanseatic Approach
Clarity, reliability, and a pragmatic view of opportunities and risks shape our work—without grand words, but with a high standard of quality.
Ready to set your foundation on course?
If you are considering establishing a foundation or reorganizing an existing structure, we work with you to develop a suitable framework. In an initial conversation, we clarify which type of foundation is right for you and what the concrete path could look like.
Specialization – Focus on Trust Foundations
We specialize in legally dependent, charitable foundations.
Structure & Security – Clear Rules, Clear Responsibilities
We provide reliable structures and stable governance.
Personal Support – A Dedicated Contact
You work with a well-coordinated team that supports your foundation over the long term.