Grant for U.S.-Japan Community Grassroots Exchange Program

The Grant for U.S.-Japan Community Grassroots Exchange Program aims to foster cultural exchange between the U.S. and Japan by funding grassroots programming initiatives. Eligible projects must include at least ten events within a 12-month period, focusing on various Japan-related topics. The grant, offering up to $30,000, prioritizes innovative outreach and sustainability. Applications are welcome from U.S. universities and nonprofit organizations that promote cultural exchange, ensuring diverse audiences are engaged.

NOTE:  The Salary Assistance Grant (SAG) was offered until 2023, and in 2024 the grant was renamed as Grant for U.S.-Japan Community Grassroots Exchange Program .
Background
Japan Foundation (JF) recognizes the value of cultural exchange on the grassroots level to deepen mutual understanding between the U.S. and Japan. This program aims to support the creation of new Japanese-themed programming (activities) for local communities by providing funding for the position that will design and implement the programing.
Proposed programming must be Japan-related; however, the types of events may vary (e.g., in- person workshop, online lecture, etc.) as well as the topics (e.g. culture, business, professional development, Japanese Studies etc. excluding Japanese Language). Additionally, JF values the sustainability and development of programming beyond JF support.
Requirements
Projects are required to include the following:Minimum of 10 or more events, such as a series of lectures, seminars, workshops, or activities that support dialogue and networking during the project period;Project length can be no longer than twelve (12) months;Projects must begin between September 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025. Preparation for the events may be included in the grant period;A minimum of twenty percent (20%) of the total project budget must be secured from non-JF sources such as the applying institution, a collaborating institution, and/or other sources.
Grant Coverage
The grant amount is up to $30,000 and inclusive of up to ten percent (10%) of indirect cost of the actual direct costs JF supports.
Personnel (staff salary) & Honoraria (speaker etc.)Travel (transportation costs) and Per Diem (hotels and meals)Conference Costs (room rental, AV equipment rental etc.)Report & Publication Costs (printing costs, etc.)
A minimum of twenty percent (20%) of the total project budget must be secured from non-JF sources such as the applying institution, a collaborating institution, and/or other sources.

Eligibility

Japanese Language or/and Japanese Studies departments at U.S. universities and U.S. based nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status that promote grassroots cultural exchange are welcome to apply.

Ineligibility

The following organizations are not eligible:JOI host sites for Year 21 (2023-2025) and Year 22 (2024-2026)Japan America Societies/ Japan Societies