Finnish cultural life is characterised by a wealth of cultural institutions and a comprehensive institutional network. There are also a wide range of activities arranged by civic organisations. The offering of culture is large, varied and actively taken advantage of by the general public. Government appropriations for culture have increased throughout the 2000s.

Culture is supported by public funding and the copyright compensation system. The foremost source of financing for culture in the central government is the Ministry of Education and Culture.

The remit of the Ministry of Education and Culture comprises national cultural institutions; publicly funded and subsidised museums, theatres and orchestras; local cultural provision; and subsidised organisational and civic activities.

The Ministry of Education and Culture is responsible for strategic development in the cultural sector. The Ministry creates overall conditions for culture and participation in culture, drafts cultural legislation, and prepares relevant budget proposals.

The Arts Promotion Centre Finland is an expert agency under the Ministry of Education and Culture. Its task is to promote the arts on both the national and international levels, as well as to promote aspects of culture.