About OEF

The Open Estonia Foundation (OEF) is a non-governmental not-for-profit public benefit foundation that was established in April 1990 with the support of the Hungarian-born American philanthropist George Soros.

The foundation is to contribute to the development of an open society in Estonia and elsewhere. Our programs are driven by a vision of democracy, civil society, social responsibility, and equal opportunities in democratic decision-making processes.

To achieve this mission, the Open Estonia Foundation initiates and carries out projects and programs, and conducts open grant competitions to support the endeavors of others.

Our activities have ranged from school reforms to contemporary art, help for the aged and legal reforms. Today, our focus is on strengthening civil society, reinforcing the principles of participatory democracy and equality, and sharing experiences of democratic transition with countries near and far.

Together with the Soros foundations in other countries, the Open Estonia Foundation is a member of the international Open Society Institute (OSI) network.