Belvédère Cultural Fund open

From 6 September 2011, alumni and other relations of Leiden University are able to invest in Belvédère Academia Leiden University N.V. ('Belvédère'). Leiden is the first Dutch University to offer alumni and private individuals the opportunity to invest in shares with the University's historical heritage as security. 

Historic premises

The premises are University buildings designated as historic monuments, and include the Academy Building, the Leiden Observatory and part of the Hortus botanicus. The buildings are located in the historic centre of Leiden, between the Witte Singel and the Rapenburg.

Beneficial for all parties

The aim of Belvédère is to intensify the involvement of alumni and other private individuals with the University in a way that benefits both the 'investors' and the University. The shares are linked to the University's heritage sites, located in Leiden's historic centre. The income generated by this initiative will be used to fund the renovation and maintenance of these exceptional cultural buildings.

Triple benefit

The establishment of the Belvédère Fund offers a triple benefit: Leiden University is able to strengthen the bond with alumni, the University will pay lower financing costs for renovation and maintenance, and the investors who buy shares will receive an attractive rate of interest (with certain tax advantages). 

Investing in culture

The Ministry of Education, Culture and Science has issued a Cultural Statement relating to Belvédère. The tax authorities has accorded Belvedere the status of a Cultural Fund. This means that the shares are classified as Cultural Investments. Private investors who are taxed in the Netherlands therefore qualify for an additional fiscal advantage. 

Applications and prospectus

Applications are open until 23 September 2011. Alumni and staff are given priority. The prospectus can be viewed on the website of Belvédère Academia. Application forms for shares can also be found on the website. As an investment institution Belvédère falls under the supervision of the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets, Amsterdam.

University initiative

Belvédère has been established by the Executive Board of Leiden Univesity. The investment fund is an initiative of the University and a number of Leiden alumni in collaboration with the Rabobank.

Website

Belvédère Academia (in Dutch)