FAQ The Grant Application Process
We receive a large amount of mail weekly, and we answer every letter personally. However, because of the volume of correspondence, sometimes our backlog builds up a bit and replies do not get out as quickly as we would like. In order to aid this process, we have provided a list of frequently asked questions. If you have a question, the chances are good that it is answered below. Save yourself some time and have a look. If your question is not answered, then feel free to ask us directly.
Q. I am thinking of applying for one of your grants. What steps should I follow?
- The first thing you should do is to read our Guidelines for The Nippon Foundation's Overseas Grants.
Q. I have read your Guidelines and my question is still not answered. What should I do?
- Please feel free, in that case, to send your query by email to the address located on the "Contact Us" page, or by regular mail.
Q. How can I find out whether The Nippon Foundation accepts projects like the one I have planned?
- The most efficient way to go about this is to send us a letter of inquiry or the Application Form before actually putting together a proposal.
Q. May I send the proposal itself by email or fax?
- Unfortunately, the actual proposal package is something that must be sent in by regular mail. We are not set up to receive full-length proposals by fax or email at this time.
Q. What language should I write my proposal in?
- The International Program Department and the Overseas Program Section of the Maritime Affairs Department accepts proposals in either English or Japanese. Applications to any other department or section will be accepted in Japanese only.
Q. What is your application deadline?
- The International Program Department has no deadline. We accept applications on a year-round basis. Thus, there is no need to rush your application in. Please keep in mind, however, that since the screening procedures take two to five months on average, it is strongly recommended that applications be submitted at least half a year before the planned start of the project, or whenever the funding will be needed.
The other departments of the Foundation have a deadline that generally falls near the end of October.
Q. We are a Japanese organization operating overseas. Is it possible for us to apply to the International Program Department for a grant?
- In principal, the International Program Department generally accepts applications from all organizations that are based outside Japan. Occasionally this will include Japanese organizations which are headquartered overseas, but those organizations should first send a letter of inquiry. Generally, Japan-based organizations should follow the Domestic Program Department.
Q. Is there a limit to the amount of grant funding that our organization can receive?
- No. Funding is determined on a project by project basis.
