#Japan #community funding #Fukushima #HAMA CONNECTED #Fukushima Arts

HAMA CONNECTED: Funding for Arts Initiatives in Fukushima

The fiscal year 2028 has brought forward a significant opportunity for organizations and individuals involved in the arts and culture sectors. The "HAMA CONNECTED" initiative is seeking applicants for indirect subsidy projects that aim to create a new appeal through art, design, and more, focusing on the 12 municipalities of the Hamadori region in Fukushima Prefecture. This funding program is designed to foster future population connections by enhancing local attractiveness and culture.

Application Timeline

The application period begins on May 15, 2028, and runs until June 15, 2028, at 17:00. It is important to note that a preliminary participation announcement is required before submission. The deadline for this participation declaration is June 12, 2028. Applications without an accompanying participation statement will not be accepted, emphasizing the need for prospective applicants to prepare in advance.

All necessary forms and application guidelines can be downloaded from the official project website, which also hosts a FAQ section and examples of previously funded projects, offering applicants valuable insights.

Financial Support Parameters

The subsidization amount ranges from a maximum of ¥5 million to ¥20 million, covering up to two-thirds of the eligible expenses (excluding taxes). Notably, projects demonstrating sufficient impact may be accepted even with requests below €5 million. Moreover, there may be a single project selected for as much as ¥50 million based on individual necessity.

Objectives of HAMA CONNECTED

In light of the aftermath of the Tokyo Electric Power Company Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident, the program aims to support sustainable community development in the affected 12 municipalities. Projects encouraging collaboration between local businesses, organizations, and artists, across various genres, will be promoted. With continued and evolving initiatives, the ultimate goal is to disseminate the charm of these municipalities throughout Japan and the world, fostering lasting population connections.

Office Support Services

To assist applicants, the HAMA CONNECTED project office offers several support services:
1. Introduction to Specialists and Artists: Following acceptance of a proposal, the office can facilitate connections between businesses and specialist artists, assisting collaborations for smooth project execution—at no additional cost.
2. Network Development Among Businesses: HAMA CONNECTED will create opportunities for businesses to connect beyond their usual fields, fostering a community-oriented sustainability ethos.
3. Support for Activities: Assurance and guidance will be provided to subsidy recipients, especially with respect to handling funding requests and progress of their projects.

Eligible Projects and Applicants

The projects must enhance the region's appeal and leverage art and design to work towards creating population connections. While the primary focus is on the 12 municipalities, projects may at times be considered outside these bounds, depending on their nature. Variety in project scope is encouraged, meaning that partial components can be submitted, and multiple projects may be combined under a single application.

Examples of Eligible Initiatives

• - Collaborative tourism tours designed with artists that showcase the local charm.
• - Development of new products with enhanced design, accompanied by promotional events both within and outside the region.
• - Installation of significant art pieces symbolizing the community.
• - Creation of facilities that foster interaction between artists and residents.
• - Hosting art and music events with anticipated ongoing visits from artists and art enthusiasts.
• - Production and distribution of promotional video content introducing the municipalities to wider audiences.

The Hamakar Art Project

Part of the funding initiative also includes the Hamakar Art Project, where artists can live among the local communities in the 12 municipalities, engaging and collaborating with residents while creating. The deadline for this aspect of the grant application is June 19, 2028, requiring preliminary entry submission by June 17, 2028.

For any inquiries regarding the project, potential applicants can reach the HAMA CONNECTED office via email at [email protected], Monday through Friday from 9:00 to 17:00.

Conclusion

This funding initiative, supported by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, showcases a concerted effort to revitalize the Fukushima region through the power of art and community engagement, laying the groundwork for a sustainable and interconnected future.