We believe that cultural initiatives could be key drivers in the sustainable development of local communities. They connect people, engage them in productive dialogue, and effect change, which creates a stimulating environment for life and work. This is precisely why the flagship culture programme of the Timchenko Foundation is “The Cultural Mosaic of Small Towns and Villages” – an award programme of funding and support designed to activate and unite local communities in small towns (with a population of up to 50,000 people) and rural areas through socio-cultural projects.  

The first grants competition was held in 2014. Over 4000 applications for funding have been received from across Russia, ranging from initiatives in food, music, and traditional crafts, to landscape festivals, theatre tours, and exhibitions, as well as learning and outreach activities. So far, 327 projects from 65 regions have been granted a total of $2,4 million in support.

By 2015, “The Cultural Mosaic” had evolved into an integrated programme offering financial support and expertise for implementing local socio-cultural initiatives. We are striving to create opportunities in small towns and rural areas. This ambitious goal is achieved through two major strands of our work: development of territories and their communities. All our programmes engage local community leaders in socio-cultural activities, diversify the cultural offer and improve the overall tourism appeal of the area.