Pro Helvetia is a foundation under public law dedicated to promoting cultural endeavours of nationwide interest. Founded in 1939, it is funded entirely by the Swiss Confederation. Its annual budget for the year 2005 is 33 million Swiss francs.

The Arts Council is intent on providing Swiss cultural practitioners with the best possible conditions for the creation and dissemination of their works. It helps them to optimize their impact at home and abroad and fosters encounters with artists from other countries.

Pro Helvetia also devises its own programmes in priority areas. These areas include fostering mutual understanding in Switzerland, intercultural dialogue, popular culture and dance.

The organization and mission of the Arts Council are set out in the 1965 law concerning Pro Helvetia.