“Joseph von Fraunhofer was not only an outstanding researcher but also a visionary entrepreneur whose innovative spirit laid the foundations for modern applied research. This combination of scientific excellence and entrepreneurial thinking also defines the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft’s commitment. In the tradition of this extraordinary research scientist, its approximately 32,000 employees at 75 institutes across Germany transform ideas and the latest research findings into applications for industry and society, actively shaping the German and European innovation process,” explains Holger Hanselka, President of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. “His gravestone bore the inscription He brought the heavens closer. Today, he remains a shining role model and source of guidance for us. It is a special honor that UNESCO has proclaimed 2026 a commemorative year for our namesake, Joseph von Fraunhofer. I would like to express my sincere thanks on behalf of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft.”
Maria Böhmer, President of the German Commission for UNESCO, said: “Joseph von Fraunhofer embodies the union of scientific curiosity, precision craftsmanship and social responsibility like no other. His work shows how research can serve humanity by coupling knowledge with utility. Through this commemorative year, UNESCO honors a pioneer of modern optics and affirms the idea that people must be at the center of progress.”
The Fraunhofer model as a driver of success
The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, which celebrated its 75th anniversary last year, embodies applied research more than any other research organization, true to the tradition of its namesake Joseph von Fraunhofer. This is reflected in its consistent market orientation, which is rooted in its mission and its funding structure known as the “Fraunhofer model.”
The Fraunhofer model is unique within Germany’s highly specialized research landscape: No more than one-third of Fraunhofer's budget comes from institutional funding (i.e., base funding from the German federal and state governments) while at least two thirds derives from competitive contracts from the private and public sectors. The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft aims to strike a balance between these two sources of revenue. The resulting pressure to win contracts—compared to organizations whose budget largely stems from institutional funding—fosters entrepreneurial thinking and activities. It ensures that the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft continuously develops solutions for the economic and social needs of today and tomorrow.
Joseph von Fraunhofer’s outstanding legacy
Joseph von Fraunhofer was born on March 6, 1787, in Straubing, Germany, and died on June 7, 1826. He was equally successful as a research scientist, inventor and entrepreneur. Fraunhofer is regarded as the founding father of optics research and precision engineering and a pioneer in German precision optics. In 1814, he was the first to systematically investigate, measure and publish the phenomenon of dark lines in the solar spectrum. Known as Fraunhofer lines, they entered the lexicon of physics and contributed significantly to the development of spectral analysis and astrophysics. His entrepreneurial work was closely linked to his activities as a research scientist and inventor. He ran a workshop and glassworks in Benediktbeuern and later in Munich. Fraunhofer’s success rested on his ability to translate scientific findings into practical, marketable products—a model for applied research that still guides the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft today.
Various activities planned for the 2026 Fraunhofer commemorative year
The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft is planning numerous events and activities across Germany for the commemorative year. The celebrations align closely with UNESCO’s strategic objectives and aim to foster a technological environment.
Further information on events and activities planned for the 2026 commemorative year will be announced in due course.
Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft