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Dear Sir or Madam,

In our newsletter we have presented numerous internationally visible companies, from start-ups to global corporations, as well as research institutions and universities. All of them are significant partners of the Berlin-Brandenburg health cluster and thus part of a leading location for cutting-edge medicine, biotech, medical technology, and digital health. 

However, the region is also a magnet for international non-profit organizations (NPOs), which make a decisive contribution to innovation and global networking. Their work is more than just a supplement to the activities of companies and research institutions. They strengthen the capital region's position as a hub for global health and make many things possible in the first place. Today, I would like to introduce you to some of the organizations with which the Health Industry Cluster enjoys working successfully: 

Charité Foundation – Excellence and local support 

The Charité Foundation is a prime example of the impact of NPOs in Berlin. It supports Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin and its partners through programs for innovation promotion, science, and open life science. In doing so, it contributes to establishing Berlin as a leading international location for life sciences. The foundation initiates collaborations, promotes talent, and enables projects that shorten the path from research to application—a key lever for the region's competitiveness. 

WHO Hub – Global Health from Berlin 

With the WHO Hub for Pandemic and Epidemic Intelligence, Berlin has become a center for international health surveillance. The hub develops innovative approaches for the early detection of health threats, promotes the exchange of data and analyses, and supports over 150 countries in strengthening their health systems. This means that Berlin is directly involved in the global architecture for pandemic prevention – a locational advantage that extends far beyond the region. 

UNFPA – Focus on women's and family health 

Since 2025, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has operated an office in Berlin that is committed to promoting women's health, especially sexual and reproductive health. With initiatives such as the WomenX Collective, UNFPA is providing new impetus for women's health and promoting partnerships between science, politics, and business. Berlin offers an ideal ecosystem for this – and is thus becoming the starting point for global programs that will benefit millions of women and girls. 

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation – Network diplomacy for global health 

The Gates Foundation opened its European office in Berlin in 2018 and uses the capital region as a platform for strategic partnerships in research, development, and politics. With projects to combat infectious diseases, strengthen health systems, and promote digital innovation, the foundation is helping to advance global health goals – and connecting Berlin-based actors with international initiatives. 

Virchow Foundation – Focus on global health 

The Virchow Foundation for Global Health was founded in Berlin in 2021 to raise awareness of global health issues and promote the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It understands health as a holistic concept that incorporates medical, social, political, and economic factors. Centerpiece of the foundation is the annual Virchow Prize for Global Health, an internationally renowned award that recognizes outstanding lifetime achievements and innovations that contribute significantly to improving health worldwide. 

Foundations and non-profit organizations – “enablers” for life sciences and health  

These organizations are more than partners—they are drivers of innovation, internationalization, and social responsibility. They bring expertise, networks, and resources to the region and make Berlin-Brandenburg a hub for the healthcare industry of tomorrow.  

They are just a few examples of the wide range of foundations and non-profit initiatives committed to health in Berlin-Brandenburg. They all make an indispensable contribution – whether by promoting research, networking global players, or implementing innovative projects. Especially now, in the Christmas season, when we pause and show gratitude, it is a good moment to appreciate the work and successes of these foundations – and many others that are committed to specific indications and medical topics. Let us work together to ensure that they continue to receive the support and visibility they deserve in the future. 


Your
Dr. Kai Bindseil
Berlin Partner for Business and Technology