Nadácia

Nadácia is a type of non-profit organization in Slovakia and other Central European countries, established to manage assets donated for a defined public-benefit purpose over the long term. It is asset-based rather than membership-based; founders endow funds, property, or other assets that form the foundation's endowment. The assets generate income used in accordance with the statutes to fund the foundation's activities, grants, or programs.

A nadácia is governed by a statutory body—typically a board of trustees—and, in some cases, a supervisory body. The founder sets the purpose in the statutes and establishes the initial endowment; ongoing management remains independent of current donors. Common activities include grantmaking, scholarships, research, culture, education, or social programs, often focused on a specific community or issue.

Foundations rely on endowment income and fundraising to finance operations. They are registered with the appropriate authorities and must maintain accounting and reporting. Donors may receive tax advantages for contributions, and a foundation may obtain public-benefit status if its activities serve the general public.

In the Slovak context, nadácia corresponds to the widely used concept of a foundation; related terms exist in Czech and other languages. It is one of several forms for civil society organizations, alongside občianske združenie (civil association) and nezisková organizácia.