The purpose of the foundation is to preserve and publish the work of photographer Michael von Graffenried, which encompasses a wide range of themes in the cultural, sociological, and humanitarian spheres, as well as traditions, intercultural connections, art, the environment, and everyday life, making it accessible to the public and serving as a platform for engaging with these themes, as well as supporting photography in all its forms, particularly in Switzerland. The foundation supports Swiss charitable and non-profit institutions (and thus tax-exempt) selected by the foundation board. The foundation does not have a commercial purpose and does not seek profit. It is exclusively engaged in non-profit activities.