Who can apply
People and working groups engaged in the fields of architecture, art, culture, and education can apply for the UKI Architects Foundation’s grants. For example, grants may be awarded to:
- students, for the completion of their final thesis
- post-graduate students
- researchers
- artists
- developers of architecture and the built environment
- other actors in the field
The foundation’s activities place particular emphasis on northern Finland. Assessments of applications may take into account:
the applicant’s connection to the north
the impact of the project on the region
the long-term nature of the activities and their cultural significance
Applicants from elsewhere in Finland or abroad may also be selected if the project aligns with the foundation’s purpose.
What grants are awarded for
Grants are awarded for projects, initiatives and objectives that strengthen architecture, education, art, and culture. For example, grants may be awarded for:
- studies and further education
- research and investigations
- artistic work
- projects to develop architecture and the built environment
- cultural and community projects
- exhibitions, events and publications
- developing personal expertise
Grants can be awarded to individuals and to working groups.
Grants are not awarded to cover travel or seminar expenses, or to pay for the cost of a doctoral defence.
Application period
The first application period for grants from the UKI Architects Foundation ends at
11.59pm on 30th June 2026.
Decisions will be announced in September 2026.
How to apply – phases of the application process
1. Read and understand the criteria
Make sure that the applicant and project align with the foundation’s purpose.
2. Write the application content
Clearly outline the project, its objectives, and its impact.
3. Prepare the attachments
Please see the list of attachments below.
4. Complete a digital application form
The link will be published when the application period opens.
5. Submit your application in time
Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted.
6. Confirmation email
You will receive an email confirming that your application has been received.
7. Decisions
The foundation’s Board of Directors will make decisions by a specified date.
8. Explanation of how the grant was used
A brief account of how the awarded grant was used must be submitted afterwards in accordance with instructions.
Required attachments
You must attach the following to your application:
- A CV or short presentation of the applicant
- A project plan, including:
- the objective and content of the project
- the schedule and method of implementation
- any collaborators
- an evaluation of the impact of the project
- A cost estimate and any funding plan
- A portfolio, if the project relates to visual or design-based work (e.g. architecture, the visual arts)
Letters of recommendation are optional. Applications may not exceed 5 pages of A4 paper.
Decision schedule and criteria
The UKI Architects Foundation’s Board of Directors makes decisions on awarding grants.
Evaluations examine:
- the significance of the project and justification for it
- how it aligns with the foundation’s purpose
- the capabilities and expertise of the applicant
- the impact of the project on northern Finland (if applicable)
- the realism, feasibility, and impact of the project
Decisions will be delivered to applicants personally.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Yes. The working group must appoint a person responsible.
Yes, if the project also benefits the Finnish or northern Finnish field of architecture and culture.
Yes. Previous grants and their reporting will be taken into account when evaluating applications.
Most grants are tax-free in Finland. Always check the latest tax advice from the Finnish Tax Administration.
It is not possible to supplement an application after the application period has ended.
No. Grants can be awarded regardless of the applicant’s place of residence or citizenship.
Born from the past and the future
The foundation carries forward the values of Professor Uki Heikkinen and his family, the long-standing culture of dedication at UKI Architects, and the Heikkinen family’s own vision of continuity and responsibility.
Architecture is one of our callings in life. We understand the significance of architectural work, and through the foundation’s activities we can help to promote and share all the good that is created within the profession.”— Mikko Heikkinen
Member of the Board
“Uki Heikkinen was an excellent draughtsman and watercolour painter. By nature, he was an open and artistic soul, yet he also possessed an innate authority. He never had to raise his voice to be heard.”— Matti Heikkinen
Chair of the Board, Counsellor of Construction
”As with architecture, life is also something that is built by communities and individuals, with everyone contributing in their own way. We can do good through our work, and make our work visible to the best of our ability.”— Mikko Heikkinen
Member of the Board