Helsinki to grant €3m for arts, culture

The City of Helsinki Culture and Library Sub-committee on Thursday approved an additional grant application round for organisations in the arts and culture sector, starting immediately.

Three million euros will be reserved for the special grant applications for 2020–2021, and the grants will be awarded in November 2020, said the City of Helsinki in a press release.

This is a one-time special grant for supporting the continuity of arts and culture in exceptional times and making the city more vibrant. The grant is a part of Helsinki’s recovery plan from the coronavirus pandemic.

The coronavirus pandemic has significant effects on the arts and culture sector: Uncertainty hinders and restricts the re-opening of cultural activities and the return of art enthusiasts to the shows. In particular, the ‘free field’ with significant self-funding, outside the central government transfer system, requires rapid aid, as safety obligations and consumer uncertainty restrict the number of visitors and income.

“Arts and culture are an essential part of the life of Helsinki residents, and a majority of Finland’s professional artists live and work in Helsinki – we will want to keep it that way. The decision on the exceptional special grant signals the City of Helsinki’s will to take responsibility and share the risk with arts and culture operators in this difficult situation,” said City of Helsinki Cultural Director Mari Männistö.

The special grant is intended for arts and culture operations open to the public. It can be sought by Helsinki-based, legally competent organisations, such as associations, business proprietors, foundations, co-operatives and limited-liability companies.

The grant cannot be sought by private persons, individual artists or unregistered work groups. The grant also cannot be sought by institutions for basic education in arts or operators owned by the City of Helsinki or within the Helsinki Group.

The allocation of the special grant will focus on professional operators. The grant will be allocated to applicants who have not received substantial grants related to the coronavirus pandemic from the state or foundations for the same purpose.

”In spring, we granted quick grants for culture, sports, and youth activities. With the additional coronavirus-related grant for culture for 2020–2021, we are seeking to increase our support’s impact,” said Helsinki Deputy Mayor Nasima Razmyar.