The »Sammelstiftung der Hochschule für bildende Künste« (collecting fund) was founded in the mid 60s. Once a year ten students, nominated by a professor after appraisal, are awarded a grant up to a maximum of 510 euros.

The selection is overseen by the trust committee, which consists of a representative of the BWF (Hamburg Science Authority) acting as chairperson, the HFBK president, a professorial representative, a representative from the BWF deputation, then one other public representative.