Kaasrahasto

Kaasrahasto, also known as the Finnish Film Foundation, is a Finnish institution established in 1987 to promote and support the Finnish film industry. The foundation operates under the Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture and is funded by the Finnish government and the Finnish slot machine association, Veikkaus. The name "Kaasrahasto" is derived from the Finnish words "kaasu" (gas) and "rahasto" (foundation), reflecting its initial funding source from the state's gas revenue.

The primary objective of Kaasrahasto is to foster the development, production, and distribution of Finnish films. It provides financial support to filmmakers through various grants and funding schemes, including development grants, production grants, and post-production grants. The foundation also supports film education, research, and cultural film activities. Additionally, Kaasrahasto promotes Finnish films internationally by participating in film festivals and markets, and by supporting the distribution of Finnish films abroad.

Kaasrahasto plays a crucial role in the Finnish film industry by enabling filmmakers to create high-quality films that might not otherwise be produced due to financial constraints. Some notable Finnish films that have received support from Kaasrahasto include "The Happiest Day in the Life of Olli Maki" (2016), "Tomi" (2011), and "Let My People Go" (2011). The foundation's work has contributed significantly to the growth and recognition of Finnish cinema both nationally and internationally.