The "Fondation de France" was created by the French government in 1969 as an independent administrative agency to stimulate and foster the growth of private philanthropy and private foundations in France. Its focus is on the elderly, the disabled, children, health, medical and scientific research, culture and the environment. It is a member of the Network of European Foundations (NEF) for Innovative Cooperation. The Foundation doesn't receive public funding instead it relies on the generosity of private donations..
It was the brainchild of Michel Pomey, advisor in the Cabinet of André Malraux, with the aim of "valorising " France", which in the 1960's was still economically weak. General de Gaulle, signed the decree officialising the creation of the Fondation du France on the 9 January 1969 with Pierre Massé as President and Pomey as Director with its headquarters in Paris. Another notable president of the foundation was Maurice Schumann (1973-74).
The foundation collaborated with the OECD Development Centre in many of the Centre's projects.

French