In 1958 the Henkel & Cie Corporation and the Persil Corporation funded the Dr. Jost Henkel Foundation in Dusseldorf on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of Dr. Jost Henkel. He was the grandchild of the corporate founder, Fritz Henkel, and died on the 7th of July, 1961, shortly before his 52nd birthday.

Dr. Jost Henkel always attached great significance to education. He believed that children from financially weaker families should be given the opportunity to study. In this spirit, the Foundation supports young people in their endeavor for a qualified education at universities, technical colleges, and equivalent institutions. Students should be able to conduct their studies successfully without a delay because they need a job to make ends meet.

In 2001, on the occasion of the 125th company anniversary, Henkel increased the foundation’s funds by 2 million euro, to 3.32 million euro, thereby supporting the education of young people even more intensively.

Flexibility is the Foundation’s greatest strength. Every scholarship holder is evaluated individually, and the element of personal contact is emphasized. Furthermore, the Foundation advises them and takes care of them.  The naturally close relationship between the scholarship holders and Henkel KGaA helps in the emergence of internships and thesis cooperation. The Dr. Jost Henkel Foundation is sensitive to social circumstances and changes.