Open Call: Grant Program for Strengthening Research Networks

Deadline: 01-Dec-2026

The Japan Foundation is inviting non-profit organizations in Southeast Asia to apply for grants supporting Japanese studies projects that strengthen research networks, encourage knowledge exchange, and deepen engagement with Japan. The programme is designed to build long-term relationships of trust between Southeast Asia and Japan by supporting the development of the next generation of human resources in Japanese studies. It aims to strengthen and expand research networks throughout the region while creating opportunities for collaboration among researchers, academic institutions, and other organizations working in Japanese studies. Eligible projects may include research and conferences on Japan, study in Japan, invitations for Japanese scholars and researchers to give lectures, publications related to Japanese studies, and the acquisition of books and other research materials. Both in-person and online projects can be supported, provided that activities are implemented between April 1, 2027 and March 31, 2028.

About the Japan Foundation Japanese Studies Grant

The programme supports the development of Japanese studies in Southeast Asia by helping organizations conduct research, academic exchange, educational activities, and other projects connected with the study of Japan. A major objective is to establish and strengthen research networks in Japanese studies across Southeast Asia. By supporting collaboration and knowledge exchange, the programme seeks to contribute to the development of researchers and other human resources who can deepen mutual understanding between Southeast Asia and Japan. Purpose of the Grant

The programme aims to:

- Strengthen Japanese studies in Southeast Asia. - Build and expand regional research networks. - Encourage collaboration among Japanese studies researchers. - Promote knowledge exchange. - Support the development of the next generation of Japanese studies professionals. - Deepen engagement with Japan. - Build enduring relationships of trust between Southeast Asia and Japan. - Encourage academic cooperation across the region. Who Can Apply? Eligible applicants are non-profit organizations in Southeast Asia involved in Japanese studies or related academic activities.

Eligible organizations can include:

- Academic institutions at university level or above. - Research institutions. - Academic societies. - Academic communities. Applicants should have an appropriate institutional connection to Japanese studies and should propose a project that contributes to the objectives of the programme. What Types of Projects Are Supported? The grant supports a broad range of Japanese studies activities.

Examples include:

- Research projects concerning Japan. - Conferences on Japan. - Study in Japan. - Invitations for Japanese scholars or researchers to give lectures. - Publications contributing to Japanese studies. - Acquisition of books related to Japanese studies. - Acquisition of research and educational materials. - Online Japanese studies projects. - In-person Japanese studies projects. - Other activities that strengthen Japanese studies research networks. Research and Conferences on Japan Organizations can propose research projects or conferences focused on Japan. Such activities can provide opportunities for researchers and academics to exchange knowledge, present research, develop professional connections, and strengthen Japanese studies networks across Southeast Asia. Projects should demonstrate a meaningful contribution to Japanese studies and align with the broader objectives of the programme. Study in Japan The programme can also support eligible activities involving study in Japan. This component can provide opportunities for participants to gain knowledge and experience related to Japanese studies while strengthening academic connections between Southeast Asian organizations and Japan. Inviting Japanese Scholars and Researchers Organizations may seek support for projects that involve inviting Japanese scholars or researchers to provide lectures. These activities can facilitate direct academic exchange and provide students, researchers, and other participants with access to expertise related to Japanese studies. Lectures can also contribute to stronger connections between Japanese researchers and Southeast Asian academic communities. Publications for Japanese Studies The programme supports publications that contribute to Japanese studies. Eligible publication-related activities can help organizations disseminate research, academic knowledge, and other materials relevant to the field. Applicants should clearly explain how their proposed publication contributes to Japanese studies and benefits the relevant academic or research community. Books and Research Materials Grant support can also be used for the acquisition of books and materials related to Japanese studies. Access to appropriate research resources can strengthen the capacity of academic institutions, researchers, and students to conduct Japanese studies activities. Online and In-Person Projects Both in-person and online projects are eligible for support. This flexibility allows organizations to develop activities according to their circumstances and the needs of their participants. Regardless of format, projects must be implemented within the specified programme period. Project Implementation Period Supported projects must be implemented between: April 1, 2027 and March 31, 2028 Applicants should ensure that their proposed activities fall within this implementation period. What Costs Does the Grant Cover? The grant covers a portion of the necessary project costs. Eligible expenses can include several categories of direct project expenditure.

These include:

- Travel expenses. - Meeting expenses. - Honorariums. - Other direct expenses. Travel Expenses Eligible travel-related costs can include: - International transportation. - Domestic transportation. - Accommodation. - Per diem. Th