Deadline: 20-Dec-2025
The Government of Japan has announced the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP), also known as KUSANONE, to provide financial support for development projects that meet the diverse needs of communities in developing countries.
This initiative is designed to address urgent grassroots priorities, with grants available up to 5 million Japanese Yen (approximately US $35,000) per project. Projects funded under this program are expected to be completed within one year.
The Embassy of Japan in Trinidad and Tobago oversees GGP applications in several Caribbean nations, including Guyana, Grenada, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Lucia, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. Eligible applicants include local and international non-governmental organizations, schools, hospitals, educational and medical institutions, and local government authorities. In special circumstances, government agencies or local offices of international organizations may also qualify if they are uniquely positioned to implement the proposed project.
Funding is targeted toward initiatives that address Basic Human Needs (BHN) and provide tangible benefits at the grassroots level. Priority project areas include poverty alleviation, public welfare, primary health care, education, agriculture, fisheries, and environmental protection. Projects focused on disaster risk reduction, climate change adaptation, and sustainable practices such as recycling and waste management are also eligible.
Certain types of initiatives, however, fall outside the program’s scope. These include projects related to advanced academic research, cultural or sports activities, political or religious missions, commercial ventures, or those with limited direct benefit to communities. Additionally, costs such as staff salaries, office expenses, land purchases, consumables, and taxes are not covered. While some items such as vehicles, books, and program-related salaries may be considered under specific circumstances, they are generally given lower priority.
By focusing on grassroots-led, community-driven projects, Japan’s GGP scheme aims to empower local organizations and institutions, helping them meet pressing social, economic, and environmental needs. This initiative not only supports immediate development challenges but also strengthens the foundation for long-term community resilience and human security across the Caribbean.
For more information, visit Embassy of Japan in Trinidad and Tobago.
