Cultural Connections: New UK–Finland partnership to support emerging creative professionals

In response to the growing need for support in mobility opportunities and cultural exchange, the pilot aims to reinvigorate international collaboration by offering UK-based artists new opportunities to connect with Finland’s arts scene.

The initiative will include an open call for artists to take part in exchange activities with Finnish venues, festivals and creative organisations, building bridges and fostering shared learning between the UK and Finland’s cultural sectors.

The Cultural Connections pilot seeks to empower artists at the early stages of their careers to broaden their international networks, gain professional experience and contribute to a vibrant exchange between two innovative cultural landscapes.

Laura Davies, British Ambassador to Finland, said:

“We’re thrilled to join forces with the Finnish Institute on this ‘Cultural Connections’ project. By supporting the journeys of emerging professionals, we are not only opening doors for creative discovery today, but also planting seeds for lasting relationships and future cultural exchange between Finland and the UK. Artistic mobility is a powerful catalyst for learning and growth, and these experiences are intended to inspire new connections and enrich both our cultures for years to come.”

Aleksi Malmberg, Director of the Finnish Institute in the UK and Ireland, said:

“Just as innovative ideas spark by neurons being linked in our minds, so does a vibrant international art scene thrive on cultural links and new connections. Our partnership with the British Embassy in Helsinki embodies this—creating opportunities for UK artists to engage with Finland’s creative community. We’re excited to deepen cultural dialogue and build on our long-standing cooperation, fostering new artistic exchanges that resonate across borders.”

Eligibility criteria

• UK-based artists and working groups (Cultural Connections funding for up to 2-3 people) and creative professionals in their early careers travelling to Finland.
• The applicant is partnering with an arts and/or cultural organisation in Finland in order to participate in a public facing or educational event, for example, a performance, lecture or hosting a workshop.
• The applicant will receive a fee from the partnering organisation.
• Artistic and professional merit will be taken into consideration.

General guidelines

• We cannot fund travel that has already taken place.
• Applicants will be notified of the decision within two weeks of submitting their application.
• No per diems or customs fees will be covered.
• The travel must take place before 31 March 2026.
• Costs will be reimbursed against receipts.
• Receipts must be submitted within two weeks after the travel has taken place.
• By receiving the funding, the participant agrees to fill in a short feedback questionnaire after the trip.
• Artistic working groups - Larger working groups can apply but this funding can only cover 2-3 people per project.

What can you apply funding for

• Reasonable travel costs (i.e flights, trains)
• Reasonable accommodation costs (i.e hotels, Airbnb)
• Green mobility top up (extra funding needed for more sustainable travel)

The application form is now live, apply here (opens a new window) or via the link below.

Finnish festivals, venues, galleries and other presenters can also be in direct contact with the Finnish Institute regarding possible partnership projects.

For more information, please contact:

Neicia Marsh, Programme Director, Society, Finnish Institute neicia.marsh@fininst.uk