During a visit to the US, Vehbi Koç is inspired by the impact of civilian foundations, especially those in education and health. Upon returning to Turkey in 1969, he establishes the Vehbi Koç Foundation to focus on health, culture, and education. Having played a part in the founding of the Republic, Vehbi Koç believed expressly that a civilized future depends on a well-educated and skilled generation. Even back then Vehbi Koç was laying the groundwork for Koç University.