The Ten-Year-Old Baltic Sea Project Invites You to Take Action

The largest private conservation area in the Archipelago Sea. The removal of pharmaceutical residues from wastewater. Research on algae cultivation to combat eutrophication. Enabling sailing camp schools for children from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. These are examples of projects funded by Ålandsbanken’s Baltic Sea Project. Launched in 2015, the Baltic Sea Project has already distributed nearly 5 million euros to startups, ideas, and initiatives that improve the condition of the Baltic Sea.

Every Year Brings a New Opportunity

The Baltic Sea Project organizes an annual funding application round, inviting everyone to join in environmental efforts. This year’s funding application is currently open and runs until the end of February. Individuals, companies, foundations, and research projects aiming for concrete scientific results are all eligible to apply for funding. The primary goal is to create long-term impact and sustainable initiatives for the Baltic Sea. The Baltic Sea Project also encourages big thinking—today’s idea can grow into a global movement. A great example of this is the Åland Index, an innovation developed by Ålandsbanken to measure the environmental impact of purchases. Today, through the Swedish company Doconomy, it reaches 850 million people worldwide.

Cleanliness, Biodiversity, and the Future

Funding from the Baltic Sea Project is granted in three different categories.
Cleanliness: This category funds projects that improve water quality and the vitality of the Baltic Sea ecosystem. Projects in this category offer solutions for removing toxic and harmful substances that do not belong in the Baltic Sea.

Future: This category supports startups and innovations that demonstrate boldness and creativity in finding new ways to improve the state of the Baltic Sea. It also welcomes projects focused on environmental education, awareness, and attitude change related to the Baltic Sea.

Biodiversity: The concept of a diverse Baltic Sea is at the heart of the project, and this category funds initiatives that combat biodiversity loss. It includes restoration and conservation projects, as well as initiatives promoting environmentally friendly agriculture. Technologies that enhance biodiversity are also welcome.

Together we make a difference

Real impact can only be achieved through collaboration. That’s why the Baltic Sea Project works together with organizations such as the John Nurminen Foundation, BSAG, and WWF to support their efforts. You can explore the projects funded by the Baltic Sea Project here.

The Baltic Sea Project’s funding is open until February 28, 2025.