The Prince Claus Fund for Culture and Development was established on 6 September 1996 to pay tribute to Prince Claus’ involvement in the field of international cooperation. The Prince Claus Fund considers culture as a basic need; it provides assistance to artists, critical thinkers and cultural organisations in regions in which the freedom of cultural expression is limited due to conflicts, poverty, suppression, exclusion or taboos.

Based on the principle that people aren’t developed but rather develop themselves, the fund promotes cultural networks and innovative activities through subsidies; each year, it presents 11 Prince Claus Awards to individuals and organisations in Africa, Asia, Latin America or the Caribbean for their outstanding contributions in the area of culture and development. The fund also provides first aid for the rescue of cultural heritage damaged by individuals or natural disasters. The Prince Claus Fund is funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The Netherlands, the Postcode Lottery and individual donations.

http://princeclausfund.org