Basel STUDY
Gretta Fenner Scholarship Fund
Educating, empowering and enabling anti-corruption leaders
Support applicants from lower-income backgrounds
In 2025, the Basel Institute on Governance launched two advanced study programmes with the University of Basel, Switzerland.
The first of their kind, these six-month courses are designed to equip mid-career professionals and practitioners from all corners of the globe with the tools, skills and networks needed to lead in the fight against corruption and financial crime.
But many of those who would benefit most – particularly those in low-income countries – cannot afford to participate.
The true impact of these programmes lies in fostering a diverse audience, both geographically and professionally.
That’s where the Gretta Fenner Scholarship Fund comes in
The Scholarship Fund will support applicants from lower-income backgrounds or developing regions who show a strong commitment to anti-corruption, transparency and good governance in their fields or communities.
Facts and figures
7
Students with full tuition support
7
Students with full partial tuition support
CHF 65,000
Raised in the first year
14
Countries reached
Your support can:
- Open doors for talented professionals from low-income backgrounds to access world-class training.
- Deliver measurable impact – not just for individuals, but for the institutions and countries in which they work.
- Build a legacy in the global fight against corruption by helping create a diverse, dynamic community of changemakers.
Criteria for awarding scholarships
We evaluate scholarship applicants carefully according to the criteria of:
- Financial need and limited access to continuing education opportunities;
- Commitment to anti-corruption, governance, sustainable development or related field;
- Professional experience and impact;
- Strength of personal statement and motivations; and
- Endorsements and references.
Where donations are earmarked for particular countries or regions, this is also taken into account in the selection process.
Choose your contribution
Any amount
Quick and easy via our crowdfunding campaign
Tuition scholarship (CHF 5,600)
Fund one student’s tuition
Full scholarship (CHF 10,000)
Fund one student’s tuition, travel and accommodation
Bank transfer
Request an invoice to pay directly
By becoming a tuition or full scholarship donor, you will be recognised in our public communications and have the chance to connect with students and programme leaders. If your contribution is CHF 1,000 or more (but less than a full scholarship), you’ll be acknowledged by name on this page.
Want to discuss your contribution?
A full scholarship of CHF 10,000 covers tuition (CHF 5,600) plus travel and accommodation to attend two in-person seminar events in Basel for one participant. Smaller contributions are also welcome and will make a difference.
If you are interested in earmarking your gift for a specific country or region, giving on behalf of an organisation or learning more about the Scholarship Fund and its benefits before donating, please email us.
Note: if you’re looking to apply for financial support yourself, please visit Basel STUDY and follow the course application process.
Gretta Fenner (1975–2024)
The Scholarship Fund is named in honour of Gretta Fenner, who led the Basel Institute on Governance as Managing Director for nearly two decades.
Gretta was a strong champion of the fight against corruption and of equitable access to education. She recognised the crucial role of both in fostering peace, justice and sustainable development.
In their words
"I am incredibly grateful to be a recipient of the scholarship. It made it possible for me to take this course, and I want to deeply thank the Basel Institute for this great initiative. More practitioners should absolutely have the chance to participate in a programme like this." Lawyer, Nigeria
With gratitude: Scholarship donors
International Academy of Financial Crime Litigators
“The Academy is proud to support the Basel STUDY initiative. It embraces our motto Where Theory Meets Practice, which was exemplified by Gretta Fenner’s drive for education.”
– Elizabeth Ortega, Co-Founder, on behalf of The International Academy of Financial Crime Litigators
Bonifassi · Bennett Jones · ECO
“The late Gretta Fenner worked to increase learning opportunities for all. We launched The Academy to enhance learning and litigation skills. Basel STUDY reflects our collective aim of expanding worldwide access to education. We are contributing to the future by investing in students, personally and professionally.”
– Elizabeth Ortega (ECO Strategic Communications), Stéphane Bonifassi (Bonifassi Avocats) and Lincoln Caylor (Bennett Jones) – Co-Founders of The International Academy of Financial Crime Litigators
Kellerhals Carrard
“Kellerhals Carrard is proud to support the Gretta Fenner Scholarship Fund. Enabling access to education empowers individuals while also building a global network of committed anti-corruption and asset recovery professionals.”
– Dr. Marco Balmelli, on behalf of Kellerhals Carrard