The Foundation
The Wihuri Foundation for International Prizes is a non-profit organization based in Helsinki, Finland. The purpose of the Foundation is to promote and sustain cultural and economic development of society.
The Foundation fulfils its purpose by awarding the Wihuri Sibelius Prize to internationally known and acknowledged composers and the Wihuri International Prize to scientists around the globe.
The Wihuri Foundation for International Prizes was established by maritime counselor Antti Wihuri, who wanted to grant significant recognitions beyond Finland as well.
Antti Wihuri went to work at sea at just 12 years old, achieved success, and began expanding his business into other fields. He wanted to give back to the society that had made his success possible.