Frequently asked questions

Small grants

Should I apply to the UK or Japan office?

Projects originating in the UK should be submitted through the UK office and those originating in Japan through the Japan office. Please submit your application to the office in the country where your organization is based; the same project cannot be submitted to both offices.

You have previously awarded me a grant. Can I apply again?

Yes, we welcome applications from previous recipients for new projects. However, the fact that we have awarded funding to your project in the past is not a guarantee that we would do so again; our trustees’ priorities will always differ in relation to the overall spread of projects we consider each award meeting.

Can I apply for funding towards activity that will take place before the decision date?

No grants are made for retrospective activity. Any project activity you apply for funding to support must take place after the decision date.

I am an individual seeking funding for a UK-Japan project. Can I apply for a grant?

No grants are awarded to support personal projects.

The UK office may consider applications from individuals with organisational backing whose projects will further the goals of the foundation; we may consider, for example, a UK artist applying for funding towards a residency in Japan who can provide a letter of invitation from the residency host or a letter of recommendation from an established arts organisation, and proof of agreement that a UK-based arts organisation is willing to receive and administer the grant funds from a business bank account on their behalf.

The Japan office may allow applications to be submitted by informal groups, provided that they are able to open a bank account in the name of the group.

What is the success rate of applications?

Normally there are requests for up to three times the amount of money available for grants each funding round. About 75% of applicants receive grants, but many receive partial funding in relation to the request submitted in their applications. The acceptance of an application by the Foundation does not imply any commitment to make an award and applicants should not plan in the expectation that they will receive a grant.

When will you let me know about the outcome of my application?

Once we receive an application, we send an acknowledgement email to confirm receipt. Applications are then reviewed at the Awards Meetings, and applicants are notified of the outcome in writing. Applicants who are awarded a grant will subsequently be asked to complete, sign, and return the necessary acceptance documents. The decision of the Trustees is final, and the Foundation is unable to provide feedback on unsuccessful applications.

Butterfield Awards in medicine and health

Should I apply to the UK or Japan office?

You should apply to the UK office, regardless of where you are based.

You have previously awarded me a Butterfield award. Can I apply again?

When will you let me know about the outcome of my application?

Butterfield award applications are reviewed by trustees every year in March. Shortly after the meeting, the Foundation advises all applicants in writing of the result of their application. Applicants who are awarded a grant will subsequently be asked to complete, sign, and return the necessary acceptance documents. The decision of the Trustees is final and the Foundation is unable to provide feedback on unsuccessful applications.