Strategy and Values
Our Strategy in Brief
- The Åbo Akademi University Foundation has sustainable, long-term investment approach and distributes grants solely based on the long-term returns generated from these investments. This approach ensures the continued vitality of the Åbo Akademi University as a dynamic university for future generations.
- The Åbo Akademi University Foundation upholds its responsibility both in the investment market and in shaping the urban landscape of Turku. The foundation preserves buildings of cultural and historical significance, integrating climate-smart solutions with a goal of achieving carbon neutrality. Sustainable development principles guide the selection of investment opportunities, with the foundation committing to invest only in companies with sustainable values.
- The Åbo Akademi University Foundations is a key supporter of the Swedish-speaking community in Finland. Through our support to Åbo Akademi University, scientific research, and cultural activities, the foundation enables educational opportunities that benefit the society.
Our Purpose
The Åbo Akademi Foundation ensures that the Åbo Akademi University remains a vibrant, Finnish, Swedish-speaking university in Turku and Ostrobothnia for future generations.
The foundation’s strategic goal is to strengthen the financial stability, scientific capabilities, and societal impact of Åbo Akademi University across Turku, Finland, and the broader Nordic region. As a responsible custodian of the cultural heritage entrusted to it, the foundation actively supports research, cultural preservation, and the Swedish-speaking community in Finland, as well as contributes to the development of the urban environment surrounding the Åbo Akademi University.
Our Vision
As a strategic partner to Åbo Akademi University, the Åbo Akademi University Foundation ensures the diversity and excellence of the university’s education and research. Åbo Akademi University, with its campuses, serves as a vibrant and inclusive heart that transcends language barriers, enriching both Turku and Vaasa.
The foundation is a trusted and responsible supporter of research and culture, and a valued strategic partner in shaping the cultural landscape and urban development of Turku.
Through its modern, sustainable, and successful management of both foundation assets and donations, the Åbo Akademi University Foundation stands as a leader in the foundation sector and a highly regarded trustee of donations.
Our Values
Social Responsibility
Transparency
Sustainability
Quality
Examples of How Our Values Are Reflected in Daily Life
Social Responsibility
The foundation actively works across language boundaries, serving as both a preserver of heritage and a future creator, with sustainability embedded in all activities. It preserves cultural and historical significant buildings and supports initiatives preserving cultural heritage. Through its financial support to the Åbo Akademi University, scientific research, and heritage activities, the foundation enables educational opportunities that benefit the society.
In alignment with its mission and values, the foundation prioritises funding for initiatives that generate a positive societal impact. Every grant recipient is treated equitably, with consistent principles and requirements.
Transparency
The foundation is committed to operating with openness and accountability. By responsibly managing donations and bequests, the foundation honors donor intentions while safeguarding long-term sustainability. Clear and consistent communication about how donations are managed, and the outcomes they enable, fosters trust and reinforces the reputation as a reliable and deserving steward of future donations.
Furthermore, the foundation maintains transparency by openly sharing detailed information on available grants, the application process, selection criteria, and the recipients. The impact of each grant is carefully evaluated, and the results are communicated in a clear and accessible manner.
Sustainability
The foundation is committed to responsible, long-term asset management and ensures transparency in its investment strategy. By maintaining a high standard of capital management, the foundation secures stable, sustainable returns year after year. Incorporating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria into its investment decisions, the foundation exclusively invests in companies with strong sustainability practices. In real estate management, the entire lifecycle of buildings is considered. The foundation works toward a carbon neutral Turku by 2029.
Quality
Excellence is central to every aspect of the work of the Åbo Akademi University Foundation. As a trusted and responsible supporter of research and culture, the foundation sets a high standard within the foundation sector and is an attractive trustee of donations. Quality is embedded in every aspect of our operations, ensuring that we consistently achieve our purpose. Asset management enables strong and stable returns. As a leader in good governance, the foundation operates with transparency, utilising modern and efficient processes. The foundation deeply values its staff, actively involving them in its ongoing development. Employee well-being and job satisfaction are top priorities, with a strong focus on providing education and lifelong learning.