The Postcode Lottery Group is expanding its long-term commitment to civil society with the launch of the Postcode Stiftung, a new independent charitable foundation dedicated to strengthening communities across Germany. 

A foundation for those who bring communities to life 

Based in Berlin, the Postcode Stiftung will develop programmes that support civic initiatives, help local leaders develop their ideas, connect charitable organisations and foster community engagement. 

Funded by players of Postcode Lotterie Deutschland, its work will focus on social, creative and green initiatives that create lasting positive impact. 

The foundation will begin its work in Germany in autumn 2026, with the first of its programmes launching early in 2027. 

 Supporting local changemakers 

 Across Germany, people are bringing neighbours together, caring for shared spaces and developing practical solutions to the challenges their communities face.  

As the people closest to these challenges, they often better understand what their communities need.  

The Postcode Stiftung will invest in people, relationships and local knowledge, helping successful initiatives grow and allowing organisations to collaborate, learn from and inspire each other. 

It’s built on a simple belief: stronger societies are built from the ground up. Lasting change begins in neighbourhoods, through people who take responsibility for one another and work together to improve the places they call home.  

 Led by Esra Küçük, an experienced foundation leader and social entrepreneur, the Postcode Stiftung will launch its first programmes in early 2027.  

Sigrid van Aken, CEO of the Postcode Lottery Group, said: “With the Postcode Stiftung, the Postcode Lottery Group is growing its long-term commitment to civil society in Germany.  

“Alongside Postcode Lotterie Deutschland and its many charity partners, the foundation will create new opportunities to support local changemakers, strengthen collective impact, foster social cohesion and support communities across Germany.” 

Esra Küçük added: “Across Germany, people are already developing creative and practical ideas that make their communities and neighbourhoods stronger and better for everyone. 

“The Postcode Stiftung will help these ideas grow, connect people who share them and give local engagement the visibility it deserves.” 

The Postcode Stiftung follows the success of similar community-focused foundations in the Netherlands, Sweden and the United Kingdom, adapting this model to Germany's unique civic landscape.  

Postcode Lotterie Deutschland raised €90.7 million for charities in 2025.