DCS/DCF wants to promote and implement economically and socially innovative developments, and to accumulate knowledge in the area of biomedical sciences and science in general, primarily though not exclusively in Belgium. Its mission comprises the support and realization of education, training and research in scientific, artistic, cultural and societal domains.

The Foundation can realize its objectives on its own initiative or by lending support and assistance to initiatives of third parties. The Foundation is entitled to develop any activities that directly or indirectly contribute to the realization of its mission, including any ancillary commercial activities, within the limits defined by law and with the understanding that their proceeds shall at all times be allocated in full to the non-profit objectives of the Private Foundation.

The Foundation is incorporated by means of an authentic instrument signed before Notary Frank Liesse in Antwerp on February 20, 2015 by Mr. Désiré Collen, born in Sint-Truiden, Belgium on June 21, 1943, residing at Swan Court, Flat 33, Chelsea Manor Street, London SW3 5RX, United Kingdom. This constitution  document was adapted and updated on 18 February 2021. The Foundation is incorporated for an indefinite period of time.

On 9 July 2024 DCS/DCF was recognised as a Foundation of Public Utility (“Stichting van Openbaar Nut”).