When Hans Demant founded Oticon in 1904, it was for a good reason: his wife was hearing impaired, and he was determined to help her and others like her. From personal experience, Hans Demant knew about the effects of hearing impairment – the complex psychological problems which inevitably arise when people have difficulty communicating.

Inspired by Hans' humanistic philosophy, his son William and his wife created William Demants og Hustru Ida Emilies Fond in 1957. The Foundation is later also known as the Oticon Foundation. Today the Oticon Foundation is the largest shareholder in William Demant Holding striving to retain an ownership share of 55-60%.

The Foundation’s statutes mandate that income be used to support the needs of hearing-impaired individuals as well as organizations. Income is derived through its ownership of the majority of shares in William Demant Holding.

In addition, the Oticon Foundation holds significant positions in the med-tech company Össur hf. and the real estate company Jeudan A/S. These positions are held through William Demant Invest A/S, an investment company, whichs is 100% owned by the Foundation. Össur and Jeudan are listed in Iceland and Copenhagen, respectively.

Having a long history, the Oticon Foundation sponsors social and educational programs, publications, conferences, cultural activities and campaigns - both for researchers, hearing-care professionals and the general public.

The Oticon Foundation
William Demants og Hustru Ida Emilies Fond
Kongebakken 9
DK-2765  Smørum
Denmark
Phone +45 3917 7100
Fax +45 3927 7900
fonden@oticon.dk
www.oticonfonden.dk