Purpose

The Wihuri Foundation for International Prizes is a non-profit organization founded in 1953 by sea captain and industrialist Antti Wihuri. The purpose of the Foundation is to promote and sustain cultural and economic development of society. The Foundation is based in Helsinki, Finland.

The Foundation fulfils its purpose by awarding the Wihuri International Prize in recognition of creative work that has specially furthered and developed the cultural and economic progress of mankind. The Foundation also awards the Wihuri Sibelius Prize to prominent composers who have become internationally known and acknowledged.

These prizes may be awarded to private individuals or organizations regardless of nationality.

So far, the Foundation has awarded a total of 41 prizes, of which 20 to composers and 21 to scientists. The prizes range from 30 000 to 150 000 euros.