This year, a total of EUR 21.2 million in culture grants will be distributed, which is 13% more than last year. The City of Helsinki is the largest supporter of culture among Finnish cities.
“Two and a half million euros is a record increase in grant for art and culture operators. Our significant investment in the vitality of the cultural field and in supporting diversity will benefit the entire Finnish art and cultural field,” says Sirpa Asko-Seljavaara, the chair of the Culture and Libraries Sub-committee.
More than 40% of the beneficiaries received an increase in their annual grant. More support was directed at dance operators and activities that renew and develop the field of art and culture. Approximately one million euros of the grants were allocated to theatres receiving central government transfers as well as to and dance, music and circus operators.
“Operators receiving central government transfers are a significant employer, and by supporting them, Helsinki strengthens the professional art field and the employment of artists,” Asko-Seljavaara says.
An increase of almost half a million euros was allocated to project grants for arts and culture, which is 50% more than in the previous year. Project grants, which can be flexibly applied for throughout the year, support art and cultural activities aimed at city residents, from city district celebrations to marginal art events. The additional appropriation is intended to ensure the support of art and culture in the changing financial environment.
Preventing segregation through art and culture EUR 300,000
The Culture and Libraries Sub-committee also decided to award a grant of EUR 300,000 to prevent segregation. This is a new form of grant aimed at preventing the segregation development of residential areas by means of art and culture. The special focus of the grant is on children and young people who need support for hobbies. The grant will be available for application during 2025.
“The grant appropriation will be allocated to recreational activities for children and young people in areas where there is little artistic and cultural recreation. We want the joys and insights of art and culture to be available for children and young people regardless of district,” Sirpa Asko-Seljavaara says.
