Why are you called the German Marshall Fund of the United States?

The German Marshall Fund of the United States was created in 1972 by a gift from the German people as a permanent memorial to Marshall Plan aid.

Does this mean you only make grants in Germany?

No, despite the very generous support of the German people, GMF has always had a European focus. Through its grantmaking and own programs, GMF seeks to stimulate the exchange of ideas and promote collaboration between the United States and Europe. GMF’s definition of Europe includes Western, Central, and Eastern Europe. GMF does not include the former Soviet Union in that list.

Why are you called the German Marshall Fund?

GMF was established as a memorial to the Marshall Plan, officially known as the European Recovery Program, which was proposed in 1947 by U.S. Secretary of State George C. Marshall at a Harvard University commencement ceremony. Marshall noted that it was "...logical that the United States should do whatever it was able to do to assist in the return of normal economic health to the world, without which there can be no political stability and no assured peace...[it] should provide a cure rather than a mere palliative." The plan provided the 15 participating West European countries with $13.3 billion for economic reconstruction, roughly 1.2% of the GNP of the United States at the time.

Do you only get support from the German government?

No. In recent years, GMF has received grants from the European Union, the U.S. Agency for International Development, the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, and others in support of its programs.

Who are GMF’s grantees?

GMF makes grants to both individuals and institutions. During its almost three decades of work in the transatlantic arena, GMF has worked with policymakers, journalists, academics, NGOs, think tanks, foundations, young professionals, and business people.

Is GMF a European institution?

No. GMF is an American institution with an American Board of Trustees. Its main office is in Washington, DC. GMF also has offices in Berlin, Bratislava, Paris, Brussels, Belgrade, and Ankara.

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