FUNDING
This page explains what an association should do before applying for funding. We will also tell you who to apply to for funding.
Associations can apply for funding from the government, local authorities, foundations or the EU, for example. Funding can be in the form of a small grant or a larger project grant.
Sponsors often have requirements. The association must meet the requirements before it can receive money. The sponsor usually requires that the association
- has been operating for at least two years
- has clear goals
- shows its activities are needed
- has a positive impact on society
- has good finances and administration.
Before applying for funding, the association should ensure it can cover basic costs, like rent and salaries, with its own funds. To have such funds, the association must first have some money of its own. This is called fundraising. This ensures that the association can operate even if it does not receive external funding.
Before applying for funding
Make sure you have the following documents ready:
- rules of the association
- plan of operations and budget
- annual report and the financial statements of the previous year
- operations inspector’s or auditor’s report
- all receipts.
Check the application forms, guidelines and timetables of the different sponsors.
Note that the sponsor may have conditions and requirements, such as accessibility requirements for websites and apps.
Read more about accessibility in Finnish at accessibilityrequirements.fi.
Where to apply for funding?
Umbrella organisations can give their members small grants for association activities or larger grants for projects. Examples of umbrella organisations include Moniheli ry and Fingo ry.
Local authorities can give small grants to associations. Find out what grants are available from your local authority.
Taike, the Arts Promotion Centre Finland, gives grants for cultural events and activities related to culture. Only registered associations can apply for funding.
STEA, the Funding Centre for Social Welfare and Health Organisations, gives grants for projects and activities that improve the well-being and health of citizens.
The government and ministries give different types of funding for projects. Different sponsors have their own rules and guidelines. Carefully read the rules and guidelines of the sponsor.
The European Union (EU), gives grants to associations that are professional in nature. This means, for example, that the association staff has professional experience, a clear plan of action and that they can manage large projects.
Foundations can also give grants to associations.
Learn more about foundation grants in the Aurora database (in Finnish).