Collectivities
Publi-editorial. Founded in Dijon over a century ago and recognized as a public utility, the Clément-Drevon Foundation supports medical research and young scientific talents in Burgundy Franche-Comté. Having already funded several dozen projects, it aims to strengthen partnerships with local businesses to accelerate innovation and improve patient care today.
Published on April 2, 2026
In a landscape where major national foundations have significant resources, the Clément-Drevon Foundation stands out for its territorial and human approach, close to researchers and the needs of the field.
In a world where medical advancements are increasing but funding needs remain significant, companies can play a crucial role. In Burgundy Franche-Comté, the Clément-Drevon Foundation has been working for over a century to support scientific innovation and improve patient health. Recognized as a public utility and deeply rooted in Dijon, the Foundation now mobilizes the regional economic ecosystem to advance medical research and enhance the scientific excellence of the region.
A foundation that is agile and transparent
Since 2023, the Foundation has reviewed over forty scientific proposals and supported 27 research projects with a commitment of nearly 700,000 euros. These projects are selected by a scientific committee composed of recognized figures in the medical field: Maurice Giroud and Henri Portier, former deans of the Dijon Medical School, Marc Maynadié, current dean, and several volunteer experts. “We are an agile foundation, with only one employee and around twenty active volunteers. Almost all donations go directly to the projects,” explains Philippe Winter, President of the Foundation and former director in the pharmaceutical industry.
The Clément-Drevon Foundation also benefits from the support of Dijon Métropole, which has been granting it a subsidy for four years, strengthening its local presence. “This public-private partnership illustrates the trust of institutions in our model and impact,” emphasizes Mathieu Poinsot, general delegate.
Three missions serving health
Today, the Foundation acts as a catalyst for medical research in the region.
– Supporting excellence in medical research: The Foundation funds projects led by hospital and university teams. These research projects can involve understanding diseases, improving treatments, or developing new therapeutic approaches. The goal is clear: to accelerate projects with high potential, especially in phases where public funding is more challenging to mobilize.
– Training scientific talents: The Clément-Drevon Foundation also supports young researchers and doctors in their training. It finances international mobility, allowing young talents to carry out their research projects in leading laboratories or universities abroad before returning to the region. “Our goal is to enable researchers to continue their projects in our region, without funding concerns, and thus retain these essential scientific talents for local innovation,” explains Maurice Giroud.
– Improving patient care: The Foundation also supports initiatives aimed at concretely improving the quality of life and patient care. “The Foundation supported Dr. Barben from the Dijon University Hospital, who conducted groundbreaking research on polypharmacy in elderly cancer patients, in order to optimize treatments and preserve their quality of life,” explains Henri Portier.
Companies, essential partners in research
To continue its development, the Foundation aims to strengthen its ties with local businesses today. This commitment fully aligns with corporate social responsibility policies, providing a concrete contribution to a general interest cause. To structure these commitments, the Clément-Drevon Foundation offers various forms of sponsorship tailored to companies and ensures transparent monitoring of the impact of donations.
How to get involved?
Companies wishing to support the Clément-Drevon Foundation can get involved in several ways: financial sponsorship, multi-year partnerships, or skills sponsorship. “Together, let’s make our region a place where health innovates and where companies are pioneers,” declares Philippe Winter.
