The Finnish
Cultural Foundation
THE PURPOSE
of the Finnish Cultural Foundation, according to its charter,
is to “promote and develop national cultural and economic life” in Finland.
In line with this, the Foundation provides grants to individuals and groups
working in the sciences and the arts, and to people and organisations in
other fields of intellectual and cultural endeavour. The Foundation also
supports larger projects through substantial grants.
THE FINNISH CULTURAL FOUNDATION
comprises a Foundation, founded
in 1939, and an Association, founded in 1937; and includes a Central
Fund and 17 regional funds. The Finnish Cultural Foundation is one of the
largest foundations in Europe today, with assets based on donations and
bequests received over 75 years. Grants are awarded annually from the
Foundation’s Central Fund, regional funds, and nearly 800 donor funds.
INADDITION
to providing grants, the Foundation arranges courses, lectures,
and other events in the arts, sciences, and other fields, and runs an art
collection. The Foundation’s most important international event is the
Mirjam Helin International Singing Competition, held every five years.
