Operation Pirkanmaa – Regional Cultural Development in Pirkanmaa
Operation Pirkanmaa (2022–2024) was a regional cultural development programme involving 20 municipalities in Pirkanmaa. Over three years, the programme supported 287 projects and more than 2,500 events, reaching nearly 360,000 participants. The initiative invested €1.6 million in cultural content, with an additional €1.3 million gathered through project partnerships. The employment impact was estimated at 59 work years, including significant support for freelancers.
The programme introduced new models such as meanwhile use of empty buildings, demolition-house art projects, and the large-scale Window Walkabout event, which featured over 200 art windows and attracted 126,000 visitors.
Following the conclusion of Operation Pirkanmaa, the regional cooperation continues.
Cultural Cooperation Continues: 2025–2029
In early 2025, the City of Tampere and 19 municipalities signed a new agreement to continue regional cultural collaboration through the Municipal Cultural Network of Pirkanmaa. The network now includes Juupajoki and Punkalaidun as new members.
The goal for the 2025–2029 period is to:
- Strengthen regional cultural services
- Support creative professionals
- Develop new collaborative projects
- Enhance EU project expertise and international cooperation
The network operates as part of the municipalities’ core activities, with Tampere coordinating the joint efforts.
“The municipalities have built this network with long-term commitment. There is a clear need to continue, as it supports both local cultural work and the broader creative sector,” says Pia Keltti, Lead Coordinator, City of Tampere.
Contact information:
Saija Mustaniemi, coordinator
saija.mustaniemi@tampere.fi
Tel. +358 40 359 2793