Earlier fundraising campaigns

Between 2009 and 2022, Åbo Akademi University conducted a number of fundraising campaigns within the framework of the Finnish Government’s matched funding programmes. Through these campaigns, the University secured substantial additional resources for its operations and basic capital, enabling long-term investments across a range of academic disciplines.

Government Matched Funding Programme 2020–2022

The Finnish Government provided matched funding for every euro donated to universities during the period 15 June 2020 to 30 June 2022. Åbo Akademi University received donations amounting to just over EUR 6.4 million, while the Government’s matching contribution totalled EUR 6.1 million.

The recapitalisation of the universities was based on a decision by the Supervisory Board of the Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra in December 2019 to provide universities with a one-off contribution of EUR 100 million.

The capital raised through the 2020–2022 matched funding programme is used to promote the University’s education and research activities according to the Rector’s decisions. Donations of EUR 10,000 or more earmarked for specific academic fields are used to support education and research within those fields.

The largest shares of donations were directed to teacher education (26%), natural sciences (16%), humanities (15%) and technology and engineering (12%).

The Government’s matched funding was added to Åbo Akademi University’s basic capital.

Government Matched Funding Programme 2015–2017

During the 2015–2017 fundraising campaign, Åbo Akademi University received EUR 12.7 million in donations from more than 700 private individuals, foundations, companies and associations. The campaign coincided with preparations for Åbo Akademi University’s centenary, which was celebrated in 2018.

The funds raised were allocated to the ÅAU 100 Anniversary Fund and continue to be used to advance the University’s education and research. Since then, the fund has enabled a number of important development projects aimed at enhancing teaching, acquiring research equipment and funding research initiatives.

The Government’s matched contribution to the 2015–2017 fundraising campaign amounted to nearly EUR 14.8 million. This funding was added to Åbo Akademi University’s basic capital.

Government Matched Funding Programme 2009–2011

The first fundraising campaign, conducted between 2009 and 2011, generated approximately EUR 13.8 million for Åbo Akademi University. Together with the Government’s matched contribution, the campaign increased the University’s basic capital by approximately EUR 48 million.