The American Austrian Foundation
About The American Austrian Foundation
Founded in 1984 by prominent Americans and Austrians including David Rockefeller and Billy Wilder, the American Austrian Foundation in New York, NY represents over three decades of commitment to strengthening international relations and fostering cultural understanding. The organization was established by individuals passionate about building closer ties between the United States and Austria, evolving from a bilateral initiative into a multilateral institution serving a global community. The American Austrian Foundation's core mission centers on bridging knowledge gaps by enabling qualified individuals to pursue advanced postgraduate education in medicine, media, and the arts. As a public, non-profit organization with 501(c)(3) status from the United States Internal Revenue Service, the foundation maintains offices in New York, Salzburg, and Vienna, demonstrating its deep commitment to transatlantic and international collaboration. The organization works alongside non-governmental organizations, government entities, and individual supporters directed by dedicated board members on both sides of the Atlantic. Through its fellowship programs, the American Austrian Foundation has impacted professionals from more than 130 countries, creating networks of scholars and practitioners who advance their fields while building lasting international connections. The foundation's work spans prestigious partnerships with leading medical schools, universities, and cultural institutions, creating pathways for talented individuals to develop expertise while contributing to global knowledge exchange and cultural enrichment.