The City of Tampere has decided its Development Grants for Culture for 2027, awarding a total of €125,000 to 19 development projects. The grants support renewal in the arts and cultural sector, collaboration, internationalisation and cultural activities in neighbourhoods across the city. A separate regional allocation allowed the city to fund more neighbourhood projects than usual, taking cultural offerings beyond the city centre.
Applications and funding
The open application period ran from 16 September to 7 October 2026, and 35 applications were submitted by the deadline. Grants went to 19 projects, while 16 applications were unsuccessful. The €125,000 total is made up of three allocations:
| Allocation | Amount |
|---|---|
| General allocation for the Development Grants for Culture | €25,000 |
| Festival development | €50,000 |
| Operation Pirkanmaa – Regional Cultural Development in Pirkanmaa, for cultural activities in neighbourhoods | €50,000 |
What the projects cover
Supported initiatives include projects that strengthen accessibility and participation, develop new cultural spaces and operating models, bring cultural activities into neighbourhoods, and promote internationalisation. The grants also support stronger collaboration networks and efforts to reach new audiences. Priority was given to projects with a lasting impact on the cultural sector and benefits that are as wide-reaching as possible. According to the city, neighbourhood-focused projects in particular help strengthen access to culture, participation and a sense of community throughout Tampere. Pia Keltti, Lead Coordinator of the Cultural Support and Accessibility team at City of Tampere Public Cultural Services, said the additional funding enabled the city to support more development projects than in previous years.
What the grants can fund
The grants may be awarded for pilot projects in the arts and cultural sector, new operating models, concepts and spatial solutions, and collaboration networks among arts and cultural organisations. They may also support development work related to applying for national or international funding, including EU funding.
Wider context
Separately, the City Board approved the Tampere For All development programme on 30 March 2026. It aims to increase opportunities for residents to meet one another, get involved and receive support in their daily lives. The programme has 1.9 million euros in funding for 2026 and is scheduled to run until the end of 2029. Outreach cultural services are among the activities it is developing.