21.05.2026
Plenty of applications for funding for the implementation of programmes in Eastern and Northern Finland
The IP AKKE funding is called the national funding for supporting the sustainable growth and vitality of the regions, which, in accordance in cooperation in cooperation with the Government's decision, is available for approximately 16 million for the implementation of programmes in Eastern and Northern Finland. The funding authority is the Regional Assembly of South Karelia, which opened the project applications at the beginning of March 2026.
The first selection period for the IP AKKE funding call ended on Friday 15 May 2026. In the first selection period, a total of 33 applications were submitted for a total amount of more than EUR 52 million. The number of applications exceeded expectations and indicates a strong interest in the implementation of the programmes. At the same time, the amount of aid applied for far exceeds the available funding of EUR 16 million.
“The number of applications shows that the objectives of the programmes are considered very timely and necessary. It is particularly gratifying that cross-regional cooperation is already strongly visible in the project preparation phase," says Senior Adviser Hanna‑Maria Urjankangas from the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment. Urjankangas chairs the steering group guiding the IP AKKE funding package.
Of the applications, 19 were directed to the region of Eastern Finland, seven to the region of Northern Finland and seven were cross-regional projects. The applications will now be submitted for evaluation. The aim is to carry out evaluations even before the summer holiday season, but the large number of applications may delay the processing schedule of applications.
As the selection process progresses, the Regional Assembly of South Karelia will inform about the possible continuation of the application process. If not all IP AKKE funding is used for project applications submitted in the first selection period, the next selection period will end on 30 October 2026. If, on the other hand, the entire funding is already committed to projects through funding decisions, the Regional Assembly of South Karelia will suspend the application process.
Further information: Development Manager Heli Gynther, Regional Assembly of South Karelia, heli.gynther@ekarjala.fi, +358 40 485 5109
Keywords:
county development and financing
