This program is designed to provide financial assistance for non-profit organizations in the US and Canada that aim to introduce Japanese performing arts to local audiences. PAJ Touring Grants help present Japanese performing arts at multiple locations in the United States and Canada, with an emphasis on locations outside major metropolitan areas. PAJ Collaboration Grants help Japanese and American/Canadian artists develop a new work, which will further an appreciation of Japanese culture when presented to American/Canadian audiences. The grants are made to nonprofit organizations in the U.S. and Canada only. Click on one of the links below for information on eligibility, grant coverage, review criteria and the application form.

2012-2013 PAJ Program Guidelines

2012-2013 PAJ Application Form

Deadline for applications is November 1, 2011. The applications must be received by mail or hand delivery (facsimile transmission or email will not be accepted) by 5:00 p.m. EST, November 1, 2011 at:

The Japan Foundation PAJ Advisory Committee will review applications in December 2011. Based on the recommendations of the Committee, the final selection of awardees is made by the Foundation's Headquarter in Tokyo. Written notification of awards will be mailed in April 2012.

To date, PAJ has funded 222 projects (including 107 touring, 105 collaborative, and 10 special projects) of Japanese performing arts in both traditional and contemporary art forms. In the "2011-2012" fiscal year, 11 projects (3 touring and 8 collaborative) were funded under the program, for a total amount of US$267,299 (please see the List of Awardees below). PAJ is advised by an annually appointed panel composed of approximately ten performing arts specialists from throughout the United States.