Fundació

Fundació is the Catalan term for a foundation, a non-profit legal entity created to pursue specific social, cultural, scientific, educational, or charitable aims through endowed resources, donations, or public funding. It has legal personality distinct from its founders, which allows it to own property, enter contracts, and sue or be sued in its own name.

Legal framework and governance: Foundations in Catalan-speaking regions are governed by civil and charitable law and are typically registered in a public registry such as the Registre de fundacions de Catalunya. They are established by a founding charter and statutes that define purpose, scope, governance, and duration. Governance usually includes a board or trustees and an executive management team, with accountability requirements such as regular reporting and audited financial statements.

Funding and activities: Foundations are financed by endowments, donations, legacies, and subsidies. Their income is generally designated for the fulfilment of their stated purposes, and capital is often preserved to sustain long-term activities. Common fields include education, culture, scientific research, health, social welfare, and environmental or community development. Some foundations pursue a status of public utility or general interest, which can carry tax advantages or access to certain public funds.

Types and relationships: Private foundations are typically established by individuals or families, but foundations can collaborate with public authorities, other non-profits, and private entities. As permanent, mission-driven entities, fundacions differ from associations, which are more typically member-driven and may lack endowed capital.

See also: Foundation (general concept), Nonprofit organization, Catalan civil law.