The Japan Foundation New York Grant for Arts and Culture

The Japan Foundation, New York (JFNY), a regional office of The Japan Foundation, supports cultural and intellectual exchange between Japan and the United States. Through its JFNY Grant for Arts & Culture, the organization provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in the eastern U.S. for projects that deepen public understanding of Japanese arts and culture. The grant is designed to encourage cultural events and artistic collaborations that explore the richness of Japan’s artistic traditions and contemporary cultural expressions. The funding is intended to enhance cultural accessibility and promote cultural literacy by supporting public events such as performances, exhibitions, film screenings, and symposia. The JFNY Grant for Arts & Culture accepts applications from 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations based in the United States. However, eligibility is limited to projects taking place in the 37 states east of the Rocky Mountains and Washington, D.C. These regions span the Northeast, South, and Midwest. The grant supports both physical and virtual events, including hybrid projects. For online-only projects, applications must be submitted at least one month before the project begins. For in-person and hybrid projects, applications must be received at least three months in advance. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year. The maximum award for a single project is $5,000, with an average grant amount of approximately $2,000. Funding may cover expenses such as artist and lecturer honoraria, travel and accommodation, publicity and printed materials, shipping of relevant materials, and costs associated with creating and hosting online content. However, expenses related to receptions are not covered. The grant is reimbursement-based, and funds will be remitted only after the project concludes and the final report with supporting payment documentation is submitted and approved. To apply, organizations must submit a completed application form using the official JFNY budget sheet, proof of nonprofit status, biographies of key personnel, the latest annual report and financial statement, and any relevant audiovisual materials showcasing the artist’s work. Applications should be emailed to [email protected] or mailed to the Japan Foundation’s New York office. Applicants are encouraged to be specific about which expenses they wish to be covered in the proposal budget. The Japan Foundation evaluates applications based on the artistic quality of the proposed project, its potential audience impact, educational and community engagement components, and the organization’s capacity to execute and sustain the project. Priority is given to projects in areas with limited access to Japanese cultural events and those with additional financial backing. Certain projects and applicants are ineligible, including individuals, for-profit entities, projects funded by other Japan Foundation grants in the same fiscal year, and those focusing on martial arts, language education, or political, religious, or commercial activities. Successful grantees must submit a final report and payment documentation within one month of the project’s completion to receive reimbursement. For inquiries or clarifications regarding eligibility or submission, applicants may contact the Japan Foundation New York office via email at [email protected].

Priority is given to projects with additional funding and in regions with limited access to Japanese cultural events. Emphasize audience impact and educational value.