A foundation for first-time founders.
Lucerne's heritage foundation supporting promising startups with coaching, mentoring, and seed funding.
What SFN Offers
A comprehensive support programme designed to help early-stage founders succeed.
Coaching
Experienced mentors guide founders through the critical early stages of their venture — from refining their business model to preparing for investor meetings.
Financial Support
Small loans of up to CHF 10,000 provide essential seed funding for promising startups, helping them bridge the gap between idea and market entry.
Mentoring Network
Access an extensive network of seasoned entrepreneurs, industry experts, and business professionals who volunteer their time and expertise.
How It Works
From first contact to market launch — your journey with SFN in four steps.
Apply
Submit your startup idea and tell us about your vision.
Get Matched
We pair you with a mentor who fits your industry and stage.
Receive Coaching
Build, refine, and stress-test your venture with expert guidance.
Launch
Go to market with confidence, funding, and a support network.
"SFN gave us the coaching and seed funding we needed to go from a rough idea to our first paying customers in under six months."
Tax-Deductible Donations
Stiftung zur Förderung von Neuunternehmen (SFN) is a recognized nonprofit foundation, tax-exempt under § 70 Abs. 1 lit. h StG (Canton of Lucerne) and Art. 56 lit. g DBG (federal). Donations are fully deductible from taxable income — up to 20% of net income in the Canton of Lucerne. On request, we issue a donation receipt (Spendenbestätigung) and proof of tax-exempt status (Steuerbefreiungsbestätigung).
Fully Deductible
Donations to SFN are fully deductible from taxable income — up to 20% of net income in the Canton of Lucerne.
Donation Receipt on Request
We promptly issue a donation receipt (Spendenbestätigung) for your tax filing whenever you need one.
Recognized Nonprofit Foundation
Tax-exempt status under § 70 Abs. 1 lit. h StG (Canton of Lucerne) and Art. 56 lit. g DBG (federal).
Submit your application
Fill in the form below. Our three board members will review your application sequentially and you will receive a decision by email.
Ready to Launch Your Startup?
Get in touch with our team to learn how SFN can support your startup journey — from coaching and mentoring to seed funding.