About the Fund

The UCB Community Health Fund supports organizations working to reduce health disparities among vulnerable populations. First launched in 2020 in response to growing societal health challenges, the Fund is designed to help strengthen the wellbeing of people who are disproportionately affected by physical, mental, or social vulnerabilities.

Aligned with the WHO’s holistic perspective on health, UCB recognizes that true wellbeing encompasses physical, mental and social aspects of life. The Fund places a particular focus on health and wellbeing, supporting organizations that work closely with diverse communities.

As a purpose led company, UCB is committed to contributing positively to the places where we operate and to supporting those most in need.

Picture showing someone helping a homeless person

Our mission

The UCB Community Health Fund supports vulnerable populations, including children and young people, older adults, socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals, un(der)insured people, and those living with health challenges not linked to UCB’s therapeutic areas.

The Fund’s ongoing mission is built around three core priorities:

  • Supporting mental wellbeing 
    The Fund has a strong focus on projects that aim to improve mental health, resilience, and psychosocial support within vulnerable groups.
     
  • Concentrating efforts where UCB is present 
    Activities focus on communities where UCB has a meaningful footprint, ensuring that support is grounded in local reality and connected to the places where employees live and work.
     
  • Building long-term impact 
    By supporting a limited number of organizations with larger, multiyear funding, the Fund aims to create stable conditions for sustainable, measurable improvements in people’s lives. 
Hear from Xavier Hormaechea, Secretary General of the UCB Community Health Fund, explaining the evolution of the Fund
Watch examples of projects supported by the UCB Community Health Fund

How the Fund works

The Community Health Fund operates through a proactive, partnership-driven model:

  • A consistent, strategic approach 
    Each cycle of funding is overseen by a management committee with representatives from UCB, the King Baudouin Foundation (KBF), and an independent chair to ensure transparency and good governance.
     
  • Long-term collaboration with selected NGOs 
    Organizations are chosen for their close connection to vulnerable populations and their ability to deliver longlasting, meaningful impact. Multiyear support allows them to plan, develop, and scale their work overtime.
     
  • A proactive and partnership‑oriented model
    The King Baudouin Foundation proactively identifies and reaches out to organisations whose work strongly aligns with the Fund’s mission, enabling more focused collaboration and deeper, long‑term impact.

Working with the King Baudouin Foundation

The UCB Community Health Fund is managed by the King Baudouin Foundation, an independent foundation based in Brussels with extensive experience in social impact funding. KBF leads the selection process, guides impact evaluation, and ensures consistent oversight of the Fund’s operations.