#Japan #Tokyo #disaster relief #NPO Support #Government Grant

Introduction to the Grant Program

On July 1st, 2024, the Cabinet Office of Japan will commence the first call for applications for a crucial financial assistance program designed to support disaster relief organizations. This initiative comes in response to severe natural disasters that occurred in recent years, including the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake, heavy rains beginning August 6th, 2025, damaging gusts in Shizuoka, major fires in Oita City, and earthquakes off the coast of Aomori Prefecture. Volunteer and non-profit organizations have mobilized to provide vital support to victims, and this grant aims to further enhance these efforts.

Program Duration

The program is set to cover activities undertaken from April 1, 2024, to February 28, 2025. This financial support intends to encourage the participation of NPOs and volunteer groups in ongoing disaster recovery efforts.

Application Period

Organizations can apply for the fund from July 1, 2024, until July 31, 2024, at noon. However, for activities commencing after July 1, 2024, applications will be accepted until noon on August 14, 2024. It is imperative for organizations to adhere to these deadlines to secure funding for their volunteer efforts.

Grant Amount

Participants may apply for a maximum grant of 500,000 yen per application. However, please note that a single organization may receive up to 2 million yen in total. In the event that total applications exceed available funds, there may be a reduction in the grant amounts.

Eligible Activities

The program supports nonprofit activities that aid victims in areas where the Disaster Relief Act is in effect, including those impacted by the aforementioned disasters. The intended activities should involve volunteer support in these affected regions, ensuring timely and effective relief assistance.

Eligible Expenses

The grant can cover transportation costs incurred when traveling to and from the activity base, limited to domestic travel only. This includes:

• - Round-trip transportation costs from the departure point to the activity center.
• - Expenses related to hiring a volunteer bus, train fares, rental car charges, and fuel costs.

Supportable Period

The eligible activity period for this grant spans from April 1, 2024, to February 28, 2025. Organizations are encouraged to maximize their engagement during this time frame to benefit from the financial assistance offered.

Further Information

For detailed information about the application process and guidelines, please visit the Cabinet Office's disaster prevention website. You can find specifics on the transportation cost subsidy program for disaster volunteer activities for the 2024 fiscal year.
Website Link

Contact Information

Due to an expected influx of inquiries regarding applications, we kindly request that any questions be directed to the designated email address. When contacting us via phone, please send your inquiry details via email beforehand to facilitate quicker responses. Your cooperation is appreciated, as it will help us manage the flow of questions efficiently.

By empowering volunteer and NPO efforts with financial support, this program reflects the government's commitment to fostering resilience and aiding those in vulnerable communities across Japan.