Deadline: 29-May-2026
The Japan Foundation has launched the Japanese Studies Small Grant Program 2026 to support projects that strengthen understanding of Japan and promote collaboration between Japan and Indonesia or Timor-Leste.
The programme supports Japanese studies, intellectual exchange, collaborative research, academic networking, and cultural cooperation initiatives that create long-term impact and strengthen international partnerships.
Programme Focus Areas
The grant supports:
- Japanese studies projects
- Intellectual and academic exchange
- Conferences and international seminars
- Webinars and workshops
- Intensive courses and training
- Joint research initiatives
- Publications and reports
- Grassroots exchange programmes
- Regional and multilateral collaborations
Priority is given to projects that:
- Promote understanding of Japan
- Strengthen Japanese studies in Indonesia
- Encourage collaboration and publication
- Build academic and institutional partnerships
- Support innovation and sustainability
- Develop future leaders in international exchange
Funding Support
The programme provides grants on a cost-sharing basis.
Average funding support:
- Around IDR 50,000,000 per project
Final grant amounts depend on:
- Project scale
- Budget needs
- Programme relevance
Applicants are required to contribute part of the project costs.
Eligible Expenses
Funding may cover:
- Transportation costs
- Accommodation expenses
- Honorariums
- Research materials
- Publication and report production
- Venue rental
- Equipment rental
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Universities
- Cultural institutions
- NGOs and NPOs
- Non-profit organizations
- Individual professionals and experts
Applicants must be based in:
- Indonesia
- Timor-Leste
Applicants must also:
- Have a bank account capable of receiving transfers from The Japan Foundation Jakarta
- Complete projects by March 1, 2027
Ineligible Projects
The programme does not support:
- For-profit organizations
- Natural science-only projects
- Political or religious activities
- Fundraising campaigns
- Construction or land purchase projects
- Military technology development
- Equipment procurement
- Projects without a clear connection to Japan
Programme Objectives
The initiative aims to:
- Deepen understanding of Japan
- Strengthen academic and cultural exchange
- Expand professional networks
- Support sustainable partnerships
- Encourage long-term international collaboration
Tips for Applicants
Strong applications should:
- Demonstrate clear relevance to Japanese studies
- Show collaborative and regional impact
- Include sustainable and innovative approaches
- Present realistic budgets and timelines
- Highlight long-term academic or cultural benefits
FAQ
Who can apply?
Non-profit organizations, universities, NGOs, cultural institutions, and professionals based in Indonesia or Timor-Leste.
How much funding is available?
The average grant amount is approximately IDR 50,000,000 per project.
What activities are supported?
Conferences, workshops, publications, joint research, webinars, academic exchanges, and Japanese studies initiatives.
Are applicants required to contribute funding?
Yes. The programme operates on a cost-sharing basis.
When must projects be completed?
Projects must be completed by March 1, 2027.
Conclusion
The Japanese Studies Small Grant Program 2026 supports academic, cultural, and intellectual exchange projects that strengthen connections between Japan and Indonesia or Timor-Leste. Through collaborative research, networking, and educational initiatives, the programme promotes deeper understanding of Japan and long-term international cooperation.
For more information, visit The Japan Foundation.