In 1999 Michael Succow founded this foundation with the prize money of the Right Livelihood Award, also known as the Alternative Nobel Prize, awarded to him in 1997. It is one of the first non-profit nature conservation foundations in the new German states. The Succow Stiftung is an operational foundation and is active both nationally and internationally. Its guiding principles are: "Preserve, sustain, value".

Initially, the Succow Stiftung was involved in the development and protection of national parks and biosphere reserves in post-Soviet countries with just a handful of employees. In the meantime, it has grown to more than 30 employees and engages in projects on four continents on climate protection, protected areas, sustainable land use and the promotion of young people. Thanks to the expertise of its employees and the foundation's board, it is well positioned in all landscapes - from peatlands to deserts.