Japan Creator Support Fund Reports International Success Across 23 Countries, Highlighting Global Impact of Creative Talent Development

The Japan Creator Support Fund, a government-backed initiative now entering its third year, has reported significant international achievements, with supported projects implemented across 23 countries and regions. The progress was shared during the ‘Japan Creator Support Fund Progress Report Meeting’ held on June 5, 2026, at the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) in Tokyo.

The Fund, delivered through the Japan Arts Council and supported by the Agency for Cultural Affairs, aims to nurture emerging creators and artists while strengthening cultural institutions. According to the report, FY2025 achievements included 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 and international touring projects.

Vice Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Shigeki Kobayashi opened the meeting, emphasizing that ‘creators and artists themselves are the source of compelling content,’ reaffirming the government’s commitment to sustained investment in creative talent and international exchange.

Four organizations presented their projects at the meeting. The Japan Performing Arts Solidarity Network introduced the SOIL Fellowship Program, which cultivates producers and strengthens the international positioning of Japanese performing arts. Participants took part in pitching events in London and Edinburgh, presenting their work to global professionals.

Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre presented TMT Gear, which focuses on developing globally active creators and enhancing theatre staff expertise. FY2025 activities included on-the-job training during overseas performances and 8K recording initiatives.

KINEMA CIRTUS reported on the Global Anime Challenge (GAC), a program providing learning opportunities for emerging animation talent. Participants attended domestic workshops and undertook internships at overseas animation studios, gaining practical knowledge in international collaboration and production.

Jikei Gakuen School Corporation introduced the Immersive Media Lab++, an immersive content creator development program delivered in collaboration with XR company STYLY. The program plans to introduce year-round courses and expanded international partnerships starting in FY2026.

Key FY2025 results from the Creator & Artist Development Support Program included 544 creators supported, 165 overseas performances/exhibitions, and total attendance of 873,761 across domestic and international events. The Support Program for Cultural Facilities Function Enhancement supported 133 creators and achieved 1,900,597 total attendance across events in eight countries.

Recent international successes highlighted include the National Ballet of Japan being named Outstanding Company at the UK’s National Dance Awards 2025 after performing Giselle at London’s Royal Opera House. In animation, Hanarokushō ga Akeru Hi ni was selected for the Competition section of the 76th Berlin International Film Festival, while Eri was selected for Directors’ Fortnight at the 79th Cannes Film Festival.

Looking ahead to FY2026, organizations plan to launch full-scale overseas exhibitions and performances. ROHM Theatre Kyoto’s ‘Kichijitsu Saikai’ is scheduled for the Beitou Art Festival in Taiwan, and Aichi Prefectural Art Theater’s ‘WITH LiMBO’ will be performed in Slovakia. Further information on program results and upcoming activities can be found on the official Japan Creator Support Fund website.

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