Why should you donate to scientific research?

The government is an important financer of scientific research, but definitely not the only one. Contributions from individuals and businesses are a valuable addition to the resources for fundamental and/or applied research. Such research is often a subject of close involvement for the donor because of his/her own experiences or personal fascination.

What is the role of the Praesidium Libertatis Fund?

Leiden University established the Praesidium Libertatis Fund, named after the university motto ‘Bastion of Freedom’, for its fundraising activities.The goal of the Praesidium Libertatis Fund is to support education and research at Leiden University. In order to make this possible, the foundation obtains resources, and channels the full 100% of the funds raised to the relevant education or research project.

What are the fiscal advantages of my donation?

The Praesisium Libertatis Fund has been acknowledged as a Public Benefit Organisation (PBO/ANBI). Since 18 October 2012, the following fiscal advantages may be applicable, according to the Dutch taxing authority (Belastingdienst):

• a PBO/ANBI is not required to pay taxes on gifts and inheritances that it receives in the context of public interest;
• payments that a PBO/ANBI makes (a.o. to projects) in the public interest are exempt from gift tax;
• if a Dutch institution is acknowledged by the taxing authority as an ANBI, a donor can deduct gifts from Dutch income or corporation tax within the applicable rules (please see the website of the taxing authority).

For more information on tax issues, you can contact +31 555 385 385 or www.belastingdienst.nl.

For example the 'Save your signature' project

Why is the university requesting a contribution to this project?

The university asked her alumni to help preserve the 'Zweetkamertje' – of which many alumni have fond memories. During maintenance work to the Academy Building, it became clear that the walls of the Zweetkamertje urgently required restoration. The plaster was flaking off the walls in several places, which meant that the signatures of many Leiden alumni were in danger of being lost.

Why isn’t the university paying for the restoration work?

The university raises funds for projects that would not otherwise be possible. Universities receive government funding for their statutory teaching, research and knowledge valorisation duties. Preserving historical inheritance is not included in our brief.

The university has plenty of money, hasn’t it?

The funding that the university receives from the government is intended for specific teaching, research and knowledge valorisation duties. The university must seek other forms of funding for projects that do not fall within these specific duties.

Why is the university asking alumni to contribute?

Many Leiden alumni have fond memories of the Zweetkamertje. We asked them for a financial contribution to ensure that this room, the walls of which they signed upon graduation, is preserved for the future.

What happens if the target amount for a project is not raised?

We will then seek additional funds. Those who donated via the crowdfunding website will be kept informed.

If you need any more or other information please send an e-mail to Lilian Visscher, l.b.visscher@bb.leidenuniv.nl.