We are the Culture – Open Call
Dreams connect us
– make yours come true!
The Open Call is closed. Application period 2nd Sept 2024 to 31st Aug 2025.
Oulu is European Capital of Culture in 2026 – and you can be a part of it!
The third and final round of the “We Are Culture” programme call was open from May 1 to August 31, 2025. By the deadline, a total of 1,020 applications were received, with the total amount of requested grants reaching €5,434,000.
It is still possible to propose your own project to be part of the Oulu2026 programme without funding starting from December 2025 onwards On this page, you can find more information on how to apply to be included in the Oulu2026 programme.
Propose your programme
1st Dec 2025 owards
You can propose your own programme / event to the Oulu2026 cultural programme. Although we no longer grant funding, it is possible to propose your own event to be included in the Oulu2026 programme and event calendar.
A new application opportunity will open on December 1, 2025, and applications will be reviewed every two weeks. Once approved, the event can be added to the Oulu2026 event calendar. This application process will remain open until September 30, 2026.
To be included, your programme should meet the following criteria:
- The programme / event takes place in 2026
- The applicant is able to carry out the implementation and communication of the programme independently
- The event content aimed at wider audiences will be realized in 2026
- The programme takes place in the Oulu2026 region.
- The applicant commits to implementing the programme in a socially and ecologically sustainable manner.
To apply, the applicants needs to sign in to the Rimbert application system. The link will open 1st December 2025.
News
Frequently asked questions
The questions below were prepared for the “We Are Culture” programme call
(application period: September 2, 2024 – August 31, 2025).
Who can apply?
Applicants can include associations, foundations, private individuals, workgroups, public entities as well as private companies (for non-profit activities).
Can a minor propose a program or apply for targeted grants?
A minor can submit a program proposal or a grant application, but an adult must be designated as the contact person and responsible party for the project.
How do you apply?
You can submit an application through the application system. The targeted grants are also applied for through the application system. You can review the application form questions in advance using the preview version of the form (PDF file).
What kind of programs are being sought?
We are looking for diverse contents to be part of the official cultural programme. We hope to receive more content for example on the following themes: living cultural heritage, culture for seniors, neighbourhood or village events, sustainable lifestyle, cultural well-being, children’s culture, physical activity or sports, maritime themes, youth culture, food culture and minority cultures. In addition to these, the programme can also focus on other topics.
We are looking for content specifically designed to be part of the Oulu2026 programme, so please describe the novelty/special value of your programme in your application. Additionally, each programme must include a component that is accessible to the public within the Oulu2026 implementation area.
What can the funding be granted for?
The targeted grants can be used to cover any expenses related to the implementation of the programme. Work related to the preparation of the programme can be included in the programme’s budget, but we do not grant funding for only artistic work. The recipient of the grant is responsible for researching any effects the grant may have for example on their taxation.
How much funding is allocated through the open call?
The Oulu Culture Foundation has reserved a maximum of 1 million euros to the open call. This includes grants received from the The Swedish Cultural Foundation in Finland for implementing Swedish-language programmes and funding from the Finnish Cultural Foundation for Sámi artists. Approximately one-third of the total amount will be distributed in each application round.
Is there a requirement of self-funding for the projects?
No. The overall funding of the project can consist of funding from multiple sources, but there is no requirement for self-funding for projects in this open call.
Who decides who is selected for the programme and who receives the targeted grants?
Oulu Culture Foundation’s designated working group evaluates the grant applications. External experts are consulted, especially for applications from Swedish-speaking applicants and Sámi artists. The Programme director makes the final decisions based on the presentations made by the Head of Community.
We have already received funding from the Oulu Culture Foundation earlier. Can we still apply for “We Are the Culture” targeted grants?
Yes, you can still apply for targeted grants, but priority will be given to applicants who have not yet received funding from Oulu Culture Foundation.
On what basis can I apply for a targeted project of €2,500–€8,000?
You may apply for a targeted grant between €2,500 and €8,000 if it is justified by the program’s duration, quality, scope, regional coverage, number of participants, or international collaboration.
What is meant by a larger-scale project?
In each application round, one to two larger-scale projects will be granted a targeted grant of €20,000 each. The aim of the larger-scale projects should be to promote Cultural Climate Change in a significant and comprehensive way. Larger-scale projects are tailored initiatives for a specific target group fostering inclusion, community spirit, or accessibility. The scale and content of the proposed programmes will be evaluated against existing Oulu2026 Cultural Programme.
In addition, the large-scale projects will be evaluated based on their innovativeness, impact, and sustainability. When applying for the €20,000 targeted grant a more detailed programme plan and budget estimate is required on the application form.
What is meant by social and ecological sustainability?
Social sustainability means for example ensuring that people of all backgrounds can participate in activities without fear of discrimination. Ecological sustainability refers to for example minizing environmental impact in event organization. All Oulu2026 events must adhere to guidelines for environmentally friendly event management and principles for creating safer spaces.
Can I submit multiple applications?
Yes, you can submit multiple applications in the open call. Each application is evaluated separately against the set criteria. However, please consider that you must be able to implement all your proposals, if they were to be selected. We encourage you to think about what unique content related to the European Capital of Culture year you want to contribute to the culture programme.
I sent in an application. What now?
Thank you for your application! The applications will be evaluated from 1st of January 2025, 1st of May 2025 and 1st of September 2025 onwards. The applications will be evaluated by Oulu Culture Foundation’s designated working group. The decisions will be sent out within two months of these dates. The results will be sent to the email of the contact person named in the application form. The applicants will not be given feedback for the applications.