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Preserve humanity’s knowledge for the centuries ahead.
At the Arctic World Archive,
we preserve the world’s most valuable knowledge
deep in the permafrost of Svalbard. Our mission is simple yet urgent: to
ensure that what matters most can outlast collapse, decay, and oblivion.
As a foundation, we rely on the generosity of people and organizations who
share this vision. Your donation directly strengthens the infrastructure,
technology, and outreach that keep humanity’s memory safe—accessible far
beyond our lifetimes.
How you can help:
- Choose a one-time gift or become a monthly supporter
- Donations are accepted in NOK, EUR, or USD (corporate giving welcome)
- We’ll share annual impact updates on how your gift made a difference
The Foundation
The Arctic World Archive began in 2017 as a bold initiative by Norwegian tech company Piql: to preserve humanity’s most valuable data in the Arctic, using ultra-durable, future-proof film stored deep in a repurposed Svalbard coal mine.
What started as a project became a symbol — and in 2025, AWA became an independent foundation, ensuring neutrality, transparency, and global stewardship.
Our mission is simple: Preserve the world’s memory — securely, sustainably and freely accessible to all for generations to come.
Storing data on Svalbard for 2000 years. How do we manage it?
At AWA, we preserve humanity’s most valuable data using piqlFilm — an ultra-durable, tamper-resistant medium engineered with advanced nano technology.
Your data is written onto photo-sensitive 35mm film in a digital and visual format, making it immutable and future-proof.
Once stored in the secure piqlBox, it requires no electricity, software, or migration to remain accessible.
Designed to last for over 2000 years, this unique solution ensures your data survives the test of time — even in the harsh Arctic conditions of Svalbard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly am I supporting with my donation?
Your donation directly supports the ongoing operations, maintenance, and expansion of the Arctic World Archive. This includes the costs of securely storing data, maintaining the facility, investing in new technologies to enhance preservation capabilities, and funding outreach and educational initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of long-term data preservation.
How is the data stored and protected?
Can I choose what my donation goes toward?
Where is the Arctic World Archive located?
The Arctic World Archive is located deep within the permafrost of Svalbard, Norway.
Is my donation tax‑deductible?
As an independent foundation, we are committed to transparency and compliance with all relevant regulations. We recommend consulting with a tax professional to determine the tax implications of your donation based on your location and circumstances.
Can individuals preserve their own data in AWA?
Yes, individuals can contribute their data to the Arctic World Archive through our submission process.