Karlsruher Universitätsgesellschaft e.V. (KUG)
The KUG is the most important sponsoring association of the Universität Karlsruhe. It supports the university, its institutes, and establishments in cases of insufficient or lacking state funds - in education and research as well as in cultural and social needs of students. In 2007, the KUG sponsored a number of projects at the Fridericiana with more than EUR 100,000. The KUG supports scientists in establishing a physics student laboratory and students in the construction of a racing car for an international construction competition. Moreover, it is funding the Heinrich Hertz guest professorship.
At present, the KUG has roundabout 700 members, among them companies and corporations as well as students and former students of the university.
Freundeskreis des Forschungszentrums Karlsruhe e.V.
The defined task of the non-profit making Freundeskreis des Forschungszentrums (friends of the Forschungszentrum) is to support the Forschungszentrum Karlsruhe and its employees in their work mainly by granting funds, awards, and support.
From funds of a separate foundation by Professor Dr. Hans Joachim Langmann, the association is annually granting the Otto Haxel award to employees with top achievements with respect to innovations in industry. In June 2008, awards were granted for excellent performancees in the service sector for the first time.