[Japan Foundation of Los Angeles](https://www.jflalc.org)

Rolling (Applications due at least 3 months prior to project start date)

Up to $5,000 per project (average award $1,000–$2,000); reimbursement basis

Supports projects in the western U.S. that promote understanding of Japanese arts and culture through events, exhibitions, and collaborative initiatives.

Projects must be in one of 13 western states; only 501(c)(3) nonprofits may apply.

--- ## Description The JFLA Mini Grant for Japanese Arts & Culture Program is designed to enhance understanding and appreciation of Japanese arts and culture in the 13 states west of the Rocky Mountains (Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming). The program funds a wide range of initiatives—such as performing arts, exhibitions, film screenings, lectures, and symposia—that foster U.S.-Japan collaboration and cultural exchange. Emphasis is placed on educational and community engagement, organizational capacity, project sustainability, and accessibility to diverse audiences. Projects are evaluated for their educational value, artistic quality, and potential impact. --- ## Due Dates - Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. - Submit at least 3 months prior to the project's start date. --- ## Funding Amount - Maximum award is $5,000 per project. - Most grants are in the $1,000–$2,000 range. - Funds are provided as reimbursement after submission of a final report and proof of payment. - Grants rarely cover total project costs; applicants are encouraged to secure additional funding. --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be designated as 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations by the IRS. - Projects must occur in one of the following states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, or Wyoming. - Collaborations with organizations lacking 501(c)(3) status are allowed, but the official applicant must assume full responsibility. - Projects must nurture understanding of Japanese arts and culture or foster U.S.-Japan collaboration through eligible formats (performing arts, exhibitions, film screenings, lectures, symposia). - Organizations may not receive grants for a fourth consecutive year unless there is a compelling reason. - Lower priority is given to organizations funded by JFLA in the previous fiscal year. - Ineligible: projects already funded by other Japan Foundation grants, language education programs, medical/technical/scientific projects, political/religious/social welfare/fundraising/commercial activities, and projects limited to specific groups or individuals. --- ## Application Process - Applications must include: - Completed application form ([download here](https://www.jflalc.org/ckfinder/userfiles/files/Grants/ac/AC_Mini_Grant_App.doc)) - Proof of 501(c)(3) nonprofit status - Biographies of principal applicants - Most recent annual report - Information on project participants (including bios) - Relevant audiovisual materials (if applicable) - Submit application package (preferably as PDFs) to [JFLACulture@jpf.go.jp](mailto:JFLACulture@jpf.go.jp) with the subject line: "Application JFLA Mini Grant (APPLICANT NAME)" - Applications must be received at least 3 months before the project start date. - It is recommended to consult with JFLA staff during the planning stage. - Notification of results is typically provided about 2 months before the project start date. --- ## Additional Information - Eligible expenses: honoraria, travel, per diem, accommodation for artists/lecturers, facility rental, publicity, printing, and shipping costs related to the event. - Ineligible expenses: indirect/administrative costs, regular staff salaries, facility rental for applicant-owned venues, purchase of ongoing-use equipment, production of artworks, and international airfare above economy class. - Grants are reimbursement-based and require submission of a final report and proof of payment. - Priority is given to projects with additional outside funding. --- ## External Links - [JFLA Mini Grant Program Page](https://www.jflalc.org/grants-ac-mini-grant) - [Mini Grant Application Form (Word)](https://www.jflalc.org/ckfinder/userfiles/files/Grants/ac/AC_Mini_Grant_App.doc) - [Mini Grant Guidelines (PDF)](https://www.jflalc.org/ckfinder/userfiles/files/AC_MINI%20_GRANT_GUIDELINES.pdf) - [JFLA Arts & Culture Grants Overview](https://www.jflalc.org/grants-ac) --- ## Contact Information | Department/Contact | Email | Phone | Address | |-----------------------------------|-------------------------------------|---------------|---------------------------------------------------------| | Mini Grant Team | [JFLACulture@jpf.go.jp](mailto:JFLACulture@jpf.go.jp) | 323.761.7510 | 5700 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 100, Los Angeles, CA 90036 | | General Inquiries | [jflainfo@jpf.go.jp](mailto:jflainfo@jpf.go.jp) | 323.761.7510 | | | Contact Form | [JFLA Contact Page](https://www.jflalc.org/contact) | | |

JFLA Mini Grant for Japanese Arts & Culture Program

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