The Ministry for Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Finland has granted €4.3 million to Siemenpuu Foundation’s programme-based development cooperation for the years 2026–2029. This represents a 7.5% increase in funding compared to the previous programme period. Siemenpuu will continue with the previous programme’s thematic priorities and country selections.
In 2026 -2029, Siemenpuu will support civil society actors and environmental defenders in the Global South to strengthen sustainable livelihoods and means of living in rural communities as well as their work to defend the rights of the environment and local communities. Land and biocultural rights and sustainable practices in agriculture, forest use, and energy production are key to both livelihoods and environmental goals.
The main beneficiaries and rights holders of projects planned and implemented by local organizations are the most vulnerable rural indigenous and local communities, who are directly dependent on the natural resources of their environment for their livelihoods. The realization of their rights is also supported by strengthening the capacity of duty bearers. Special attention is paid to strengthening the position of women and persons with disabilities.
Communication and advocacy work carried out in Finland and in global networks will increase mutual learning and strengthen the results of the activities and Finland’s global responsibility.
According to the Ministry for Foreign Affairs’ decision on government grants, “Siemenpuu’s application meets the qualitative assessment criteria mainly well or very well. A few of the criteria are met satisfactorily. In the overall assessment of the programme presented in the application, the strengths identified are that the programme supports Finland’s development policy objectives by promoting democracy, the rule of law, human rights, equality and non-discrimination, and a vibrant civil society. The programme’s target groups, indigenous peoples, women and persons with disabilities, and environmental human rights defenders, are long-term priorities of Finland’s human rights policy. The programme emphasizes livelihood opportunities and supports women’s entrepreneurship. The programme opens an application window for projects by local organizations in developing countries or their regional or global networks related to private sector. Those projects would be implemented in cooperation with Finnish companies to strengthen responsible trade, local business or investments in environmental and climate issues. Siemenpuu’s programme is implemented in LDCs and fragile states.”
In total, the MFA granted four-year programme support worth approximately €311 million to 23 organizations. Of the total amount, approximately €271 million is earmarked for development cooperation and €40 million for humanitarian aid.