The institute gets its basic financing from public funds with a share of 50 per cent each from the states and federal government.
In 2012, a regular budget of EUR 21.9 million was provided.
In addition, the institute aquires third party funds through projects  and  industrial contracts. Third party funding amounted to EUR 8.2 million in 2012.

By December 31, 2012, the IPF had a total of 461 employees.

At any time, a large number of visiting scientists works at the institute for different periods. In 2011, their number amounted to 106 from 26 countries.