The Sumitomo Foundation

What's New

Introduction video for "The Sumitomo Foundation" and "Japan-Related Research Projects":

The video introducing "The Sumitomo Foundation" and "Japan-Related Research Projects" are now available.

Application Period for FY2026 will be from Sep 1st.  If you are considering applying, be sure to watch the video in advance and prepare your application.

Purpose of the Program:

The program aims at enhancing mutual understanding between Asian countries and Japan through promoting research projects in the field of the social sciences or humanities that are related to Japan.

Eligible Projects for Application:

Any research project to be carried out by individual or a group in the field of the social sciences or humanities that is related to Japan.

Qualification of Applicant:

Researcher shall be of Asian (non Japanese) nationality, living outside Japan. Awarded researcher must conduct the proposed research by themselves.

Fiscal 2026 Program:

• Application period :
  From September 1st (Tue) to October 30th (Fri) , 2026
• Grant period :
  One year (April 2027 through March 2028)
  In unavoidable case during the research period, it can be extended  for total two years maximum upon request.
• Grant budget :
  ¥50 million in total, with 70 projects to be selected

Application Procedure:

The Application period for Fiscal Year 2026 will start on September 1st.

Link to the Application Page (Will be available from September 1st)

Application Form, Application Guide and Procedure & Instruction for Application in Fiscal Year 2026 attached below.

• Application Guide (PDF)
• Procedure & Instruction for Application (PDF)
• Application Form (PDF)
• Application Form (WORD)
• FAQ (PDF)

Language for Application:

English or Japanese

Selection:

The selection of applications will be made by the Foundation's Selection Committee made up of certain persons of high academic standing. Based on such determination, the Foundation's Board of Directors will approve the grant.

Selection Review for FY2025

Numbers of Past Applications/Awards:

Research Projects Awarded:

You can open the grants list below.