Mobility support program EU-Japan

The European Capital of Culture (ECoC) has evolved into a global cultural extravaganza, welcoming artists from 100+ countries. To further connect artists, artistic organizations, and cultural enthusiasts in Japan and European ECoC host countries, EU-Japan Fest introduces the “Passport Program” – a mobility initiative supporting a broader range of people in the art and culture domain.

Purpose

The program aims to facilitate interactions among artists and cultural stakeholders from diverse genres across Japan and European countries. Through this, sustainable networks and future-oriented programs can take shape.

Eligibility

Local resident artists and cultural stakeholders in Japan and European ECoC host countries are eligible to apply, regardless of nationality.

Travel Objectives

• Explore festivals and programs of the ECoC of the year (*).
• Investigate festivals and programs of European countries that hosted ECoCs in the past or will in the future.
• Engage with festivals and programs in Japan.
• Connect with local artists and cultural stakeholders.

Grant Details

• Three types of travel destinations (Japan, ECoC countries, European ECoC countries).
• Grant amounts range from ¥100,000 to ¥200,000 (amounts subject to change based on global circumstances).
• Payment methods include cash and bank transfers.

Application Process

1. Email EU-Japan Fest office for the application form: eu-japan@nifty.com
2. Fill out the application form.
3. Required documents: Application form (PDF), participant’s portrait photograph (1MB or larger / 1200 x 1600 pixels), support request letter from current or future ECoC.
4. Submit via email or file transfer service to EU-Japan Fest Japan Committee: eu-japan@nifty.com

Support Decision and Payment

• Support decision notification within 1 week of receiving the application.
• Payment methods vary (cash or bank transfer).
• Payment date: A-1 applicant – during a meeting at the EU-Japan Fest office, A-2 and A-3 applicants – within 3 weeks after fulfilling report requirements post-travel.

Post-Travel Requirements

Within 30 days of departing:

• Submit Passport Program report form (Word).
• Provide 5-10 research and meeting photographs (1MB or larger / 1200 x 1600 pixels).
• For A-2 applicants: Include invoice (¥200,000) and bank information (PDF), For A-3 applicants: Provide invoice (¥100,000) and bank information (Word).

Important Notes

• One application form per applicant.
• Up to 2 applicants can apply for the same project.
• Complete application form and include all required materials.
• Incomplete applications will be rejected.