FUNDAR, Centro de Análisis e Investigación was created in January 1999 by a group of leaders from different disciplines, with the objective of developing schemes for citizen participation, identifying models of action that have been successful in other countries and experimenting with new methodologies that can contribute to the resolution of specific social problems.

During 1999, the activities of FUNDAR were aimed at identifying a niche for the organization. Since then, budget analysis has become the central subject of the institution, due to the degree of technical experience required, and the fundamental importance that it has for a wide variety of topics. At present, FUNDAR is the only civil organization that carries out continuous and interdisciplinary budget analysis and research from different perspectives. FUNDAR also provides training and advice to different groups, with the objective of increasing the participation and impact of citizens in the definition of priorities, which are then reflected in the allocation of public resources.

Starting in January 2003, a new area was added to the organization: Governance and Human Rights. This expansion allowed for the reorganization of the institution, in order to ascribe the existing projects to each of the areas, and embark on new projects at the same time.

Since FUNDAR's foundation, Sergio Aguayo has headed the Board of Directors, and Helena Hofbauer has been its Executive Director.