#Japan #Tokyo #scholarship #Aging Society #Shimada Mirai

Applications for 2026 Scholarships Now Open at Shimada Mirai Foundation

The Shimada Mirai Foundation, headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, announces the opening of applications for the 2026 scholarship program starting April 15, 2026. Unlike many traditional scholarship programs that prioritize academic achievements, this initiative emphasizes students' aspirations and potential. It aims to support diverse students engaged in innovative thinking to address challenges posed by Japan's aging society, moving beyond conventional welfare frameworks.

Foundation’s Mission: Transforming Japan’s Aging Future

Japan is currently facing the highest aging population rate in the world. At the Shimada Mirai Foundation, we believe that solving this issue requires a variety of perspectives that transcend traditional welfare approaches. We envision a future where students from diverse fields confront these challenges and generate new value. By doing so, we accompany them in realizing this future. This year, the foundation has expanded the number of scholarships from 15 to 30, welcoming a broader range of students.

Scholarship Features: High Degree of Freedom and Possibility

This scholarship program provides an environment conducive to students' autonomous learning and growth. The aim is to encourage challenges that create brighter futures through financial support. The scholarships are open to students from all academic fields, promoting unprecedented challenges without restrictions on academic performance or income. As these are non-repayable scholarships, they can also be combined with other financial aids. Furthermore, the program fosters opportunities for interaction among scholars and with the foundation, supporting deeper understanding of their research.

Voices from 2025 Scholars

A Teacher at Overseas Japanese School
"My experience as a scholar has elevated my perspective from personal learning to social contribution. The foundation's ideology of 'changing the future of our aging society with new ideas and designs' will shape my approach as I step into the classroom. Even amidst declining birth rates, I strive to enhance the quality of education and spark a movement toward change among children. With the insights I've gained from Africa’s collaborative practices, I am excited to embark on new challenges this April."
—Aoki Akano, 4th year, Tokyo Gakugei University, International Education.

Researching Cancer Metastasis Mechanisms
"In my first year as a doctoral student, I’ve had the privilege of engaging in invaluable research activities and external engagement, especially during an international conference in Adelaide and a field study program in the U.S. The interactions with researchers and peers during these experiences have greatly enriched my academic life. I am incredibly grateful to the Shimada Mirai Foundation for their warm support, enabling me to focus fully on my research and societal engagement."
—Tomosaki Yamagata, 1st year, Keio University Graduate School of Science and Technology.

2026 Scholarship Application Details: Take a Step Toward Your Dreams

Are you ready to transform the future of our aging society with your ideas and actions? We eagerly await your application!

Application Period

Applications accepted until June 30, 2026 (postmarked by this date)

How to Apply

Visit the Shimada Mirai Foundation homepage for detailed requirements and submit your application via one of the following methods:
1. Direct online submission via the application form
2. Download and fill out the application documents from the foundation's website and send them by mail.

Scholarship Amount

300,000 yen per year (non-repayable)

Eligibility Criteria

• - Students enrolled in universities (2nd year or above), junior colleges (2nd year or above), or graduate schools based in Tokyo as of April 2026
• - Must hold Japanese nationality
• - All majors and departments are eligible.

Number of Scholarships

30 applicants will be selected, with a few alternate spots available in case of withdrawals.

Required Documents

• - Application form (with a photo)
• - Enrollment certificate
• - Report on activities or plans addressing challenges in aging society
• - Optional works (portfolio, etc.)

Schedule

• - Selection period: July 1 - July 31, 2026
• - Notification of selected scholars: Mid-August 2026
• - Disbursement: Twice, in September and March (half-yearly)

- Annual submission of research progress report and participation in foundation workshops are planned.

Upcoming Event: Research Presentation by Scholars

As part of our outreach, we are organizing a research presentation event for scholars. This event will highlight our discussions on the future of an aging society and is open to all.

Event Details

• - Date: May 16, 2026, 10:30 AM - 1:30 PM
• - Venue: 30th floor conference room, Shinjuku NS Building
• - Scheduled Content:

- Lecture by Professor Yasuyuki Taki from Tohoku University
- Progress reports from two scholars

Further information will be announced on the foundation's website.

Contact Information

Shimada Mirai Foundation Office
〒151-0053 Tokyo, Shibuya, Yoyogi 3-22-7
Tel: 03-6275-2222
Email: [email protected]
Website: Shimada Mirai Foundation Official Website