72% of German Nonprofits Optimistic Despite Funding Strain
Berlin – November 03, 2026 -- Seventy-two percent of German civil society organizations look to their future with confidence, even as 73% name bureaucracy and administrative burden as a key obstacle, according to the first Zuversichtsbarometer ("confidence barometer") from the Robert Bosch Stiftung.
Polling firm forsa surveyed 754 representatives of registered associations (e. V.), foundations and nonprofit limited companies (gGmbHs). The organizations cover welfare, education, environment, culture and sport. Interviews were conducted by computer-assisted telephone (CATI) from August 10 to September 4, 2026.
Staff engagement drives optimism for 94% of respondents
Employee and volunteer commitment is the most important source of encouragement, cited by 94%. Positive feedback from target groups follows at 92%, and tangible successes and visible impact at 90%.