Patronage happening right now

On June 26, 2026, the State Hermitage Development Foundation will hold its anniversary, twentieth, charity reception at the Winter Palace. Funds raised by patrons and trustees are traditionally directed to the restoration of museum collections and the Hermitage's educational projects.

In its 170th anniversary year, the Tretyakov Gallery has opened the large-scale exhibition “Predecessors. Pryanishnikov and Soldatenkov,” introducing the public for the first time to two of the greatest Moscow collectors of the 19th century. The merchant and patron Kozma Soldatenkov and the official Fyodor Pryanishnikov assembled outstanding collections of Russian painting and bequeathed them to museums — establishing the tradition of private collecting for the public good long before Pavel Tretyakov.

On June 18, 2026, the A. P. Chekhov Melikhovo Museum-Reserve launched the charity marathon “Never tire of doing good!”. The programme brings together private donors and cultural institutions to support museum and social initiatives in the Moscow region.

The Martha and Mary Convent and the Moscow Virtuosi State Chamber Orchestra gave a charity concert, “The Seasons. Reimagined.” Proceeds support the convent's aid programmes for those in its care — an example of culture and mercy joined together.

On June 10, 2026, a gala concert of opera soloists and the symphony orchestra of the Bolshoi Theatre, conducted by Valery Gergiev, will take place at Registan Square in Samarkand. The performance will be held in the historic square, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and will be one of the significant musical events of the summer. 2026 marks the Bolshoi Theatre's 250th anniversary.

More than 3 million rubles have been contributed to the endowment fund of the Museum of Patrons: entrepreneur Igor Rybakov announced that he would double any contributions made to the museum's endowment, supporting the tradition of private participation in preserving the history of Russian patronage.

The annual «Bridges to the Future» award has been established, which will recognize outstanding projects by philanthropists, patrons, and social entrepreneurs who contribute to the development of society, culture, and education.

The «Polylog» Foundation has opened applications for a grant competition for regional NGOs and initiative groups. Support will be provided to projects aimed at preserving cultural heritage, developing education, and social entrepreneurship.

The Ministry of Economic Development, together with Forbes Russia, presented a public register of all registered endowment funds in Russia — for the first time with a system for comparing profitability and expenditure items.

The Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation has opened applications for the annual «Patron of the Year» award. Nominations: «Estate Revival», «Museum Support», «Educational Initiative», «Preservation of Intangible Heritage».

The 23rd «Museum Without Borders» competition has been announced — the total grant fund is over 200 million rubles. Priority is given to regional and rural museums, digital projects, and inclusive programs.

The second stage of restoration of Alexander Blok's house has been completed: a memorial study and park area have been opened. The work was carried out through private donations and a grant from the Ministry of Culture.

The SberVmeste online donation platform summarized its results: over 1.8 million people supported 1700 NGOs. The average check increased to 540 rubles, and the share of regular donors exceeded 30% for the first time.