Strategy

I About Cupore

The Centre for Cultural Policy Research Cupore is Finland’s only research centre specialising in cultural policy.

Cupore is maintained by the Foundation for Cultural Policy Research. The foundation was established in 2002 by the University of Jyväskylä and the Finnish Cultural Foundation. The Ministry of Education and Culture was one of the initiators of the foundation’s establishment. Cupore works in close collaboration with national and international networks.

By cultural policy, we refer to public action concerning culture and to the choices and decisions related to culture and affecting culture across different sectors of society. In a democratic society, cultural policy involves civil society, the public sector, and the private sector alike.

II Values

Cupore’s core values are independence, dialogue and sustainability.

Cupore is committed to the independence of research. As an independent research centre, we assess and examine structures and practices impartially and in light of research evidence. Our findings are based on data and analyses produced in accordance with the principles of good scientific practice. Adherence to these principles ensures both the high quality and ethical integrity of our research.

As a research centre, we promote open, inclusive and evidence-informed dialogue on cultural policy. Our work is based on extensive collaboration with arts and cultural actors, as well as with experts and organisations across different academic disciplines and fields of public administration. This strengthens the accessibility of research knowledge and enhances its societal impact. We actively bring forward current and emerging issues that are significant for cultural policy and closely follow developments in both Finnish and international cultural policy.

At Cupore, sustainability is reflected in both our research themes and our organisational practices. Alongside ecological, social and economic sustainability, we highlight the importance of cultural sustainability. Cultural policy plays a role in shaping the cultural heritage of the future. We promote organisational sustainability through long-term financial and human resource policies, with the aim of safeguarding Cupore’s ability to fulfil its mission over the long term.

III Mission – Why and How We Work? 

We produce and promote high-quality, reliable and multidisciplinary research on cultural policy. We make research-based knowledge on cultural policy accessible, understandable and useful for arts and cultural professionals, other cultural policy stakeholders, decisionmakers and wider audiences. We stimulate and actively contribute to public discussion based on the knowledge we produce.

We work because research on cultural policy is essential for evidence-informed decision-making, effective policy measures and democratic debate. Through the provision of reliable knowledge, Cupore supports sustainable solutions, organisational and policy development, informed decision-making, and the monitoring of policy impacts. Our work is guided by foresight, problem-solving, independence and societal relevance.

IV Vision – Where Are We Heading?

In Finland, cultural policy is open, inclusive and evidence-informed, and is supported by active public debate. Through research, interpretation and dialogue, Cupore leads the way towards a more sustainable society.

We are a pioneer in cultural policy research and an active bridge-builder across sectors and networks. The knowledge we produce plays a key role in decision-making and the implementation of cultural policy, while also fostering innovation. We are an internationally recognised leader in high-quality, independent cultural policy research and a contributor to value-based discussions on culture and society.

Strategic Priorities for Implementation

  1. Strengthening Cupore’s vitality and well-being
  2. Developing communications, branding and dialogue
  3. Strengthening the strategic focus and long-term orientation of research