Foundations in the Canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden – Nature and Tradition

Foundations in the Canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden – Nature and Tradition

The Canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden belongs to the greater region of Eastern Switzerland. Until 1597 it was part of the joint state of Appenzell with Appenzell Innerrhoden. After the separation, it took several centuries for the canton to adopt its current official name. The history and the connection to nature shape the work in the region and shape the philanthropic sector.

Foundations in the Canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden

The canton is characterised by hilly landscapes, but also by its customs and traditions. With far-reaching views over Lake Constance, Appenzell Ausserrhoden is known for its many hiking trails. More than 20 themed hiking trails attract hiking enthusiasts from all over the country and let them come into contact with the incomparable Appenzell customs again and again. Like its neighbouring canton, the tradition is deeply anchored in ways of life: it is celebrated with much music, singing and painting by over 55’000 inhabitants spread across 20 communities.

This cohesion can be clearly seen in the local charitable engagement. At the end of 2022, Appenzell Ausserrhoden had 116 grant giving organizations and, with a foundation density of 20,9, ranked eighth in the national comparison – just behind the smaller neighbouring canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden. The Swiss average remains unchanged at 15,5 foundations per 10’000 inhabitants. With a net growth of 1,7%, the canton shows an above-average development compared to the nation as a whole.

Foundation Landscape and Funding Purposes

People live and celebrate in this region: from Alpfahrt, to Silvesterchlausen, to Bloch. With jewellery, traditional costumes and the culinary offerings, Appenzellerland shows its multifaceted side. In addition, the many local specialities such as Appenzell cheese, peasant paintings and handmade works of art make the 243 km2 canton proud.

Foundations in Appenzell Ausserrhoden accordingly support traditional projects as well as charitable and cultural works by the local population. Other foundations aim to preserve natural landscapes and historical objects that are important features of the canton. Otherwise, as in the neighbouring canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden, most of the grant giving organizations are active in the areas of culture, social affairs and education. This is shown by a look at the database of the StiftungSchweiz foundation platform: 35 foundations promote cultural causes, 29 help the needy and 22 focus on education.

Advancing Digital Fundraising in the Canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden

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