Nominate the recipient of the Central Finland Cultural Environment Award!

We’re inviting proposals for a deed, a doer or a community that has developed and brought life to its cultural environment in Central Finland.

Call is open: 2–23 September 2025

The Central Finland Cultural Environment Group (MAKU) has opened the call for the 2025 award. This year’s theme is “The best places are found at the centre” highlighting big-hearted civility, doing things together and events. Proposals can be submitted via an online form (In Finnish).  

Who can be awarded?

Individuals, associations, communities, companies, projects or municipalities. The action must relate to cultural environments and Central Finland’s cultural heritage: good use or care of the environment, or activity for its benefit.

Selection criteria 2025 

• Respect for cultural heritage values

• Strengthening or preserving vitality

• Positive change in awareness and attitudes

• Creative or new ways of doing

• Visibility, cooperation and interaction

• Fit with the theme

The recipient will be chosen by the Communications Committee of the Central Finland Chamber of Commerce. The award is a unique enamel plaque designed by artist Ulla Huttunen. If there are many strong proposals, MAKU may also grant commendations. The award and any commendations will be presented at the Central Finland Culture Gala on 15 November 2025 at Jyväskylä City Hall.

Earlier awardees can be viewed on the ELY Centre website.  

Further information:

Liisa Bergius, Chair of MAKU, Regional Architect, Regional Council of Central Finland, +358 40 590 2296