At its meeting on Tuesday 19 May 2026, the Sports Sub-committee of the City of Helsinki's Culture and Leisure Committee decided on the awarding of grants to support regional sports activities, for the promotion of sport and physical activity for the elderly and for promoting safer club activities in 2026. The grants awarded amounted to just over €1.1 million in total.
Activities to promote sports and physical activity for the elderly
The grants for the promotion of sport and physical activity for the elderly are used to support the wellbeing and functional capacity of older people in Helsinki by increasing sports and physical activity. The projects funded with the grant are aimed at improving the opportunities of elderly persons living at home to be active and lead a good life rich in experiences. Preventive measures that enhance wellbeing address the challenges posed by the ageing population.
These grants were awarded to 35 associations and foundations, with the total grant amount being €700,000.
More responsible and safer club activities
The grants for promoting safer club activities are used to support the projects of associations organising sports and physical activities that are aimed at developing responsible club activities and safer recreational opportunities for children and young people. In a safe sports club, children and young people can be physically active without a fear of bullying, harassment, racism or other inappropriate behaviour.
These grants were awarded to 16 associations, with the total grant amount being €200,000.
Support for children and young people's leisure activities in the suburban regeneration areas
The common goal of the City of Helsinki is to prevent segregation. In recognition of this, the grants to support regional sports activities are used to support activities and development work aimed at increasing low-threshold physical activities for children and young people in the suburban regeneration areas (Mellunkylä, Malmi, Malminkartano, Kannelmäki, Meri-Rastila) and in need-based designated districts. One of the focus areas of the grants are girls with an immigrant background. The grants are part of a targeted effort to bring about overall positive development in the suburban regeneration areas.
These grants were awarded to 11 associations, with the total grant amount being €206,500.