The Jacobs Foundation was established in 1989 by Klaus J. Jacobs and his family, driven by a singular vision: to improve the education and development of children and youth around the world. From its beginning, the Foundation has been committed to advancing evidence-based solutions that give every child the opportunity to thrive.
About us
Our story
Our roots
Klaus J. Jacobs, born on December 3, 1936, into the renowned Jacobs coffee family in Bremen, Germany, combined entrepreneurial success with a deep commitment to social impact. After building an international career in the coffee and chocolate industries — culminating in the leadership of Johann Jacobs & Co. and the creation of Jacobs Suchard — he turned his attention toward philanthropy. In 2001, Klaus J. Jacobs transferred his interests in Jacobs Holding to the Jacobs Foundation, securing a long-term financial base for the Foundation’s mission.
A new chapter
Historically sustained by returns from Jacobs Holding, the Foundation entered a new era in 2025 by assuming full control over its assets and adopting an independent investment strategy. This transformation ensures that the Foundation’s financial management is fully aligned with its philanthropic goals and enables sustained long-term impact.
Our work today
Today, the Jacobs Foundation advances its mission by strengthening education systems, fostering the use of high-quality evidence in decision-making, and catalyzing global and country-level programs that aim to improve learning outcomes for children and youth. Through strategic partnerships with governments, research institutions, and philanthropy, the Foundation drives systemic change — bridging research, policy, and practice to create lasting impact across Switzerland and around the world.
I always felt driven to ensure that children have a good future ahead of them.