The Foundation as a Catalyst for the Common Good
Founded in 2002, the Jane and Aatos Erkko Foundation supports research in medicine, technology, and economics, as well as the arts, culture, and other initiatives that benefit society. In May 2026, the Foundation reached a significant milestone: the total value of grants awarded exceeded €500 million.
Highlights of Our Grantmaking
Founded in 2002, the Jane and Aatos Erkko Foundation supports research in medicine, technology, and economics, as well as the arts, culture, and other initiatives that benefit society. In May 2026, we reached a significant milestone: the total value of grants awarded exceeded €500 million.
Opportunities for Young Talent
We are committed to the renewal of science and the arts, and to fostering new and bold initiatives. We seek to support emerging talent by advancing the career development of young researchers and artists and by promoting generational renewal within their fields.
The Youth Company of the Finnish National Ballet
€ 5.3 million awarded between 2013 and 2024
Three Music Education Projects
The Instrument Academies, The Conservatory Association of Finland and The Sibelius Academy.
€ 2,9 million awarded in 2024
Sustaining Excellence in Research
Our goal is to enable sustained, long-term research while also fostering collaboration across disciplines. The Foundation’s grants for world-class research are among the largest awarded by Finnish foundations. Individual grant sizes have increased over time, with a median grant of €533,000 during the period 2021–2026.
Research on Ecology and Biodiversity Change
Professor Anna-Liisa Laine
€ 8,2 million between 2014 and 2026
Research on Neurodegenerative Diseases
Professor Vesa Kiviniemi
€ 2,4 million between 2016 and 2026
Research on Parkinson’s Disease
Professor Mart Saarma
€ 4,7 million between 2013 and 2024
Research on Epilepsy and Mitochondrial Disease in Children
Professori Anu Wartiovaara
€ 3,0 million between 2009 and 2023
Experiencing Art at Its Highest Level
We promote internationally competitive art and culture. Bringing leading international artists and productions to Finland gives Finnish audiences the opportunity to experience high-quality art from around the world.
Helsinki Biennial
€ 900 000 in 2024
International Orchestra and Dance Performances at the Helsinki Festival
€ 3,1 million between 2012 and 2024
Photo: Finnish National Gallery / Pirje Mykkänen
ARS22 Anniversary Exhibition at Kiasma
€ 500 000 in 2020
La Scala Milan Performs at the Savonlinna Opera Festival
€ 1,1 million in 2018
Solutions for a More Sustainable Future
We help to build a sustainable future by supporting bold research and pioneering initiatives. Our aim is to advance solutions that strengthen expertise and society’s capacity for renewal over the long term. The goal is to enable research and innovative approaches that help address significant societal challenges.
Room Temperature Superconductivity 2033 (SuperC)
Professor Päivi Törmä
€ 2,0 million in 2023
Advanced Steels for a Green Planet, AS4G
University of Oulu
€ 2,0 million in 2022
Centre for Coastal Ecosystem and Climate Change Research Tvärminne Zoological Station
Professor Alf Norkko
€ 3,0 million in 2021
Bioinnovation Center
Aalto University
€ 10,5 million in 2020
Supporting Children and Young People
The foundation supports the well-being of children and young people by promoting access to the arts, culture, and sports, as well as opportunities for learning and participation. The aim is to create positive impacts that extend beyond individuals to society as a whole. At the same time, these efforts help strengthen the skills, equality, and confidence in the future of coming generations.
The Culture Kids Program
City of Helsinki
€ 2,4 million between 2019 and 2023
Bringing the Energy of Ballet to Children
Finnish National Opera and Ballet
€ 560 000 between 2021 and 2022
Equal Girls Project
Helsinki Cup
€ 190 000 in 2021
Building the Foundations for International Excellence
The foundation seeks to create opportunities through its grants for internationally high-quality activities, sector growth and renewal, stronger ecosystems, and the engagement of new audiences.
The New Architecture & Design Museum
€ 20,0 million in 2021
Urhea Center – National Olympic Training Center
€ 1,5 million in 2019
Helsinki Music Center
World’s largest Modern Concert Organ
€ 500 000 in 2017
Dance House Helsinki
€ 15,0 million in 2014
