Grant Opportunity: Mini Grant Program for Japanese Arts and Culture

The Mini Grant Program aims to support projects that enhance understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Eligible organizations must be designated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit by the IRS and operate within the 13 states west of the Rocky Mountains. Projects can include performing arts, exhibitions, film screenings, lectures, and symposia that promote U.S.-Japan collaboration. The grant amount can be up to $5,000.

Ineligible projects include those that have already received funding from other Japan Foundation grants for the same project, language education programs, medical/technical/scientific projects, political/religious/social welfare/fundraising/charity/commercial activities, and projects restricted to specific groups/individuals.

Grant coverage includes publicity fees, printing costs, honoraria for artists and lecturers, travel expenses (economy flight), shipping costs of materials related to the event, and facility fees. The grant is paid as reimbursement upon receipt of final reports and proofs of payment.

Review criteria include strength of educational and community activities, capacity for future continuity, organizational ability to carry out the project, balanced budget estimate, artistic quality of the project (demonstrated by work samples and artists' record), and expected impact on the audience and U.S. arts scene.

Applicants must submit a completed application form along with proof of non-profit status (IRS letter), biographies of principal applicants, most recent annual report of applicant organization, information about participants (including biographies), and audiovisual materials if applicable.

Applications must be received at least 3 months prior to the project start date. The Japan Foundation will contact applicants approximately 2 months prior to the project starting date with results. Grants may not cover all expenses and priority is given to projects with additional outside funding.

For more information on eligibility requirements and application details, please refer to the Mini Grant Program Guidelines available on the Japan Foundation, Los Angeles website.