Japan Creator Support Fund Boosts Global Reach with Awards and Co-Productions

The Japan Creator Support Fund, a government-backed initiative by the Agency for Cultural Affairs and delivered through the Japan Arts Council, is generating tangible international outcomes as it enters its third year. At a progress report meeting on June 5, 2026, at MEXT in Tokyo, organizations presented FY2025 results, highlighting awards, nominations, and co-productions across music, film, games, and the arts. Supported projects have reached 23 countries and regions, including Asia, Europe, and North America, with achievements such as selections at the Berlin International Film Festival, Cannes Directors' Fortnight, and Annecy International Animation Film Festival, as well as performances at London's Royal Opera House. The Fund aims to nurture emerging creators and strengthen cultural institutions, promoting international exchange and overseas expansion opportunities for Japanese creators.

Four organizations showcased their projects at the meeting. The Japan Performing Arts Solidarity Network introduced the SOIL Fellowship Program, which sent participants to pitching events in London and Edinburgh. Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre presented TMT Gear, focusing on global creator development and theatre staff expertise. KINEMA CIRTUS reported on the Global Anime Challenge, offering internships at overseas animation studios. Jikei Gakuen School Corporation launched the Immersive Media Lab++ with XR company STYLY, planning year-round courses from FY2026. These initiatives are building foundations for full-scale overseas expansion, supported by 544 creators and 301 advisors under the Creator & Artist Development Support Program, and 133 creators under the Cultural Facilities Function Enhancement program.

Looking ahead to FY2026, organizations are launching full-scale exhibitions and performances, building on recent successes. For example, ROHM Theatre Kyoto will present Kichijitsu Saikai at the Beitou Art Festival in Taiwan, and Aichi Prefectural Art Theater will perform WITH LiMBO in Slovakia. Recent highlights include the National Ballet of Japan winning Outstanding Company at the UK's National Dance Awards, and Shochiku's European tour of How an Onnagata Is Made. The Fund's impact is further underscored by selections like Hanarokushō ga Akeru Hi ni at Berlin and Housenka at Annecy, demonstrating Japan's growing global creative influence. For more details, visit the official Japan Creator Support Fund website: https://creator.ntj.jac.go.jp.