Foundations in the canton of Nidwalden
Of the 13,782 active foundations in Switzerland, 87 are located in the canton of Nidwalden. As one of the smallest cantons, it continues to rank well above the national average with a remarkable density of 19.1 foundations per 10,000 people.
Foundations in Nidwalden: High Foundation Density and Diverse Organisations
Nidwalden is one of Switzerland’s smallest cantons in terms of both area and population. It is therefore hardly surprising that, according to the Foundation Report, of the 13,782 active foundations in Switzerland, only 87 are located in the canton of Nidwalden. However, when the number of foundations is put into perspective relative to the population, the canton has a remarkable density of 19.1 foundations per 10,000 people—well above the Swiss average of 15.1. The half-canton also follows the general trend of foundation growth in Switzerland: It recorded three new foundations at the end of 2025, compared to the previous year. However, one foundation was liquidated.
Foundation Landscape & Focal Points of Philanthropy in Nidwalden
Meanwhile, the diversity of Nidwalden’s culture and natural environment is reflected in the focus areas of the organizations based and active there. All areas of focus are represented. The foundations and projects are primarily active in the fields of art and culture, social services, and education. A strong sense of solidarity among the people of Nidwalden is evident in these foundations and projects. For example, the Sculptor Hans von Matt Foundation focuses on supporting local artists, while the Josef and Elsbeth Wyrsch Foundation provides financial assistance to residents of Nidwalden in need. In general, there is a tendency among the foundations in the half-canton to provide direct financial support. Nevertheless, we must not overlook important nonprofit organizations such as the Pro Senectute Nidwalden Foundation or the Unterwaldner Naturjuiz Collection Foundation, which directly advance the well-being of the region through their own activities.
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Find and contact the right foundations and nonprofit organizations in Nidwalden
People who are involved in or interested in Swiss philanthropy often feel overwhelmed by the vast array of options—the search for a suitable foundation or project can turn into a Sisyphean task. Spheriq offers a solution: On our foundation platform, you can find exactly what you’re looking for thanks to smart filter and search functions. You can narrow your search by both topic and location; for example, with just a few clicks, you can find all the foundations in Nidwalden that award grants for cultural causes.
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