U.S. Embassy Tokyo seeking Applications for “Social Innovation”

Deadline: 31 March 2020

The U.S. Embassy Tokyo’s Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out an exchange program showcasing the technological advances that are being implemented to address pressing social issues common to the U.S. and Japan in order to deepen the economic, scientific, and technological cooperation, promote sustainable economic growth, and strengthen people-to-people ties between both countries.

Objectives

Technology and innovation provide solutions to many of today’s key social, environmental, health, and economic challenges. Leading software applications, IoT devices, artificial intelligence, big data and cloud technology, and many more advanced technological tools have drastically improved people’s lives. This digital transformation has been vital in creating new solutions that improve the well being of people and society, ultimately leading to a more sustainable approach to economic development. However, even in developed countries such as the U.S. and Japan, there still exists social challenges that have yet to be resolved. As an example, in Japan, the nature of its super aging society and a continuous decline in population have led to a shrinking workforce, resulting in contracted economic growth, especially in rural areas.

Funding Information

• Estimated Total Program Funding: $75,000
• Award Ceiling: $75,000
• Award Floor: $5,000

Priority Region: Japan

Eligibility Criteria

The following organizations are eligible to apply:

• Not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/nongovernmental organizations
• Public and private educational institutions
• Public international organizations and governmental institutions
• Individuals

Funding Restrictions

The following types of projects or activities are not eligible for funding:

• Projects relating to partisan political activity;
• Charitable or development activities;
• Construction projects;
• Projects that support specific religious activities;
• Fund-raising campaigns;
• Lobbying for specific legislation or projects;
• Scientific research;
• Projects intended primarily for the growth or institutional development of the organization;
• Projects seeking funds for personal use;
• Projects that require participation fee.

Evaluation Criteria

Each application will be evaluated using the criteria outlined:

• Quality and Feasibility of the Program Idea: The program idea is well developed, with detail about how program activities will be carried out.
• Organizational Capacity and Record on Previous Grants: The organization has expertise in its stated field and has the internal controls in place to manage federal funds. This includes a financial management system and a bank account.
• Program Planning/Ability to Achieve Objectives: Goals and objectives are clearly stated and program approach is likely to provide maximum impact in achieving the proposed results.
• Budget: The budget justification is detailed. Costs are reasonable in relation to the proposed activities and anticipated results.
• Monitoring and evaluation plan: Applicant demonstrates ability to measure program success against key indicators and provides milestones to indicate progress toward goals outlined in the proposal.
• Sustainability: Program activities will continue to have positive impact after the end of the program. Cost sharing will be considered here.

How to Apply

Complete applications, including all documents, must be submitted in one email at the address given on the website.

For more information, visit https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=323941