Grant for Grassroots Exchange: Japan Festivals and Events supports U.S. community organizations in presenting Japanese festivals, events, and workshops to deepen understanding of Japan and cultural exchange.
Funder: Japan Foundation New York
Due Dates: Rolling (at least 2 months before the project starts)
Funding Amounts: Up to $7,000 per project; maximum 80% of the total project budget
Summary: Supports grassroots Japanese cultural events, festivals, and workshops that deepen understanding of Japan in U.S. communities.
Key Information: Only U.S.-based institutions and organizations with 501(c)(3) status may apply.
Japan Foundation New York’s Grant for Grassroots Exchange: Japan Festivals and Events supports community-driven initiatives that bring Japanese culture to local audiences. The program aims to deepen understanding of Japan, promote cross-cultural exchange, and nurture global perspectives. Supported activities include hands-on workshops and lectures led by Japanese culture professionals for students and communities, as well as Japanese festivals and cultural events designed to attract broad audiences.
The program particularly prioritizes underserved schools and communities with little exposure to Japan in the Midwest, Mountain, and South regions. It favors projects reaching substantial audiences, involving newcomers to K–12 education on Japan, and connecting with local cultural, educational, business, and Japanese community resources. Innovation, potential replication, community impact, and sustainability beyond the grant period are important considerations.