Deadline: 30-Sep-2026
The Grant Program for Japan America Society / Japan Society Capacity Building provides funding to strengthen the organizational capacity, sustainability, and long-term growth of Japan America Societies and Japan Societies across the United States. The initiative supports projects that help nonprofit organizations improve management practices, fundraising capacity, governance, membership engagement, and strategic development.
The program aims to build stronger and more resilient organizations capable of expanding their impact, improving operational effectiveness, and fostering long-term community engagement. Priority is given to projects that address immediate organizational needs, encourage collaboration, and demonstrate innovative approaches to capacity building.
About the Program
The grant supports organizational development initiatives that enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of eligible Japan America Societies and Japan Societies.
Supported activities include:
- Income generation and fundraising development
- Strategic planning initiatives
- Public relations and communications development
- Program development and improvement
- Membership recruitment and retention
- Professional development and leadership training
- Nonprofit management enhancement
- Governance and board development
Projects that promote resource-sharing among multiple organizations, demonstrate strong board commitment, and encourage community collaboration are particularly encouraged.
Funding Information
The program provides grants of up to $30,000 for projects lasting up to 12 months.
Funding may be used for:
- Personnel expenses
- Consultant and specialist honoraria
- Travel and per diem costs
- Conference, workshop, and symposium expenses
- Publication and reporting costs
- Indirect costs of up to 10% of eligible direct costs
Applicants must secure at least 20% of the total project budget from non-JF sources, including organizational funds, partner contributions, or other funding support.
Eligible Organizations
Applicants must be:
- Japan America Societies located in the United States
- Japan Societies located in the United States
- Organizations holding 501(c)(3) nonprofit status under the Internal Revenue Code
Organizations that received funding through this program for three consecutive years between 2023 and 2025 are not eligible to apply.
Project Requirements
Projects must demonstrate feasibility, organizational sustainability, and the potential to contribute to long-term growth.
Applicants are required to produce at least one tangible output that supports continued organizational improvement. Examples include:
- Strategic planning reports
- Organizational development frameworks
- Governance improvement plans
- Fundraising strategies
- Conferences, workshops, or symposia
- Resource-sharing materials
Projects should clearly show how outcomes will continue benefiting the organization after the grant period ends.
Collaborative Initiatives
The program encourages partnerships involving multiple Japan America Societies. Collaborative projects that promote knowledge-sharing, best practices, and broader community engagement may receive favorable consideration.
Such initiatives can help organizations leverage shared expertise, improve efficiency, and strengthen the wider Japan America Society network across the United States.
Ineligible Activities
Funding cannot be used for:
- Commercial activities
- Political activities
- Religious activities
- Activities promoting specific doctrines or claims
- Language education programs
- Capital campaigns
- Debt reduction efforts
- General operating costs unrelated to the project
- Building construction or maintenance
- Equipment purchases
- Software purchases
- Land acquisition
Projects that closely resemble previously funded initiatives may receive lower priority unless they demonstrate innovation or incorporate lessons learned from earlier efforts.
Importance of the Program
Strong nonprofit organizations play an important role in promoting cultural exchange, community engagement, and U.S.–Japan relations.
By investing in organizational capacity rather than short-term activities alone, the program helps organizations improve leadership, strengthen financial sustainability, expand membership engagement, and build long-term resilience. These investments contribute to stronger institutions that can better serve their communities and advance their missions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum grant amount?
- Eligible organizations may request up to $30,000.
How long can funded projects last?
- Projects may be implemented for up to 12 months.
Who can apply?
- U.S.-based Japan America Societies and Japan Societies with 501(c)(3) nonprofit status.
Is cost-sharing required?
- Yes. Applicants must provide at least 20% of the total project budget from non-JF sources.
When must projects begin?
- Projects must start between December 1, 2026, and March 31, 2027.
Are collaborative projects encouraged?
- Yes. Partnerships involving multiple Japan America Societies are encouraged, particularly those promoting knowledge-sharing and community engagement.
Can previously funded organizations apply?
- Organizations funded through this program for three consecutive years from 2023 to 2025 are not eligible.
Conclusion
The Grant Program for Japan America Society / Japan Society Capacity Building provides critical support for nonprofit organizations seeking to strengthen governance, fundraising, strategic planning, membership development, and overall organizational effectiveness. Through grants of up to $30,000, the program helps eligible organizations build sustainable foundations for long-term growth and increased community impact.
For more information, visit The Japan Foundation.