Gretta Fenner Scholarship Fund
Educating, empowering and enabling anti-corruption leaders
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.
Interested in donating to the Fund?
Contact us
If you wish to apply for financial support, please see 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.
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.
Funding opportunities and benefits
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.
Contributions of any size are welcome and will make a difference. We are open to discussion about particular criteria (e.g. specific focus countries or regions) depending on your or your organisation's priorities.
Donors are recognised in public communications and will have the chance to connect with students and programme leaders.
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.
How to contribute
To discuss the Scholarship Fund and how to donate, please email us. If you wish to apply for financial support, please see Basel STUDY and follow the course application process.
With gratitude: Scholarship donors in 2025
"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
"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