Help us keep what the world can't afford to lose.

Arctic World Archive preserves the memory of those who cannot preserve it themselves. That work is funded by people who believe some things must survive us.

Support the mission

Why your support matters

Somewhere, a language is down to its last fluent voice. An archive that holds a people's history sits on a failing hard drive. A community's memory lives only in the minds of its elders. None of them can afford to make it last. We can – but only with you.

Your support is what turns “almost lost” into “safe and accessible for a thousand years.”

What your support already made possible

Mission-fundedThe sinking Marshall Islands seen from above, photographed by Christian Clauwers.

Christian Clauwers

Sinking Marshall Islands

Preserving the Marshall Islands’ Climate Change Story in the Arctic World Archive

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Mission-fundedUNESCO Archives

UNESCO

UNESCO Archives

Today, UNESCO is the custodian of the IIIC archives, inscribed on the Memory of the World International Register in 2017. From 2017 to 2019, thanks to the support of the People of Japan, UNESCO Archives was able to digitize the documents and correspondence of the IIIC and make them freely accessible online.

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Ways to give

Ice cube

  • Official recognition as a Supporter of AWA (web page, social media, official documents...)
  • Official certificate & badges for your own communications
  • Annual "State of AWA" briefing: what was preserved this year, and what your support made possible
  • A symbolic token of your support — a tangible reminder that you are part of it
  • Your name preserved in the Archive itself, on a dedicated Supporters' film sealed in the Arctic vault
  • Invitation to AWA's Community of Supporters (news from the vault, deposit stories, first access to announcements, etc)

Iceberg

Everything in Ice Cube and...

  • Official recognition as a Guardian of AWA
  • Ability to support dedicated preservation projects of your choice within the AWA Foundation
  • Annual invitation for two representatives to one of AWA's deposits in Svalbard (travel on own expense)
  • The opportunity to nominate candidates to be honored as AWA Ambassadors
  • A symbolic physical token of your support — a tangible reminder that you are part of it

Glacier

Everything in Iceberg and...

  • Official recognition as a Champion of AWA
  • Participation opportunities connected to UNESCO-related preservation initiatives
  • Invitation for two representatives to the World Legacy Summit
  • Preservation of your organization's own history in AWA
  • Priority access to strategic preservation projects
  • Enhanced engagement with AWA leadership and project partners
  • Opportunity to support documentary heritage from a specific country, region, or community
  • The opportunity to nominate candidates to become members of the AWA Advisory Board

Want to make a smaller donation? Donate here.

Let's talk about what you'd like to help preserve.

Every major gift begins with a conversation. Tell us what matters to you, and we'll show you what it could preserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I get at each support level?

Each support level comes with its own set of benefits, ranging from official recognition and certificates to invitations to exclusive events and opportunities to contribute to preservation projects. The higher the support level, the more extensive the benefits, including priority access to strategic initiatives and enhanced engagement with AWA leadership.

Can I customize my support benefits?

Yes, we understand that each supporter may have unique needs and preferences. We offer the possibility to customize your support benefits to align with your organization's goals and interests. Please contact us to discuss how we can tailor your support experience.

Is this tax deductible in my country?

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 support based on your location and circumstances.

Do you support specific preservation causes?

Yes, we welcome support for specific preservation causes. If you have a particular area of interest or a specific project you would like to support, please reach out to us. We can discuss how your support can be directed towards initiatives that align with your values and objectives.

How will my funds be used?

Your support directly contributes to the ongoing operations, maintenance, and expansion of the Arctic World Archive. This includes costs associated with 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.

Can we get involved without a long-term commitment?

Absolutely! We offer various ways to get involved without a long-term commitment. Whether it's through one-time contributions, volunteering, or participating in specific projects, there are opportunities for individuals and organizations to support the Arctic World Archive in ways that suit their availability and interests.

Still have questions? Contact our team →