What is the theme of JANIC Youth Award 2026?

The theme is 'Saving the World, My Daily Life.' We encourage ideas that address global issues from everyday perspectives.

Can I apply as a group?

Yes, both individuals and groups can apply. Prizes will be awarded per group if selected.

Can ongoing projects be submitted?

Yes, both ongoing actions and future plans are eligible for submission.

When will the results be announced?

Winners will be notified directly on October 7, 2026.

Is travel cost covered for event attendance?

Travel expenses must be covered by the participants themselves.

Applications Open! 'Saving the World, My Daily Life.' Student Idea Contest 'JANIC Youth Award 2026'

Published Jul 14, 2026 7:10 PM ・ Updated Jul 14, 2026 11:00 AM ・ 10 min read ・ Source: PR TIMES

JANIC, Japan's largest NGO network for international cooperation, has opened applications for the 'JANIC Youth Award 2026,' a student idea contest inviting youth to propose solutions to social issues from everyday perspectives. The theme is 'Saving the World, My Daily Life.'

The Japan Platform for International Cooperation on NGOs (JANIC), Japan's largest NGO network, is now accepting applications for the student idea contest 'JANIC Youth Award 2026,' targeting youth interested in solving social issues and international cooperation (Application period: June 19 – September 27, 2026).

What is the 'JANIC Youth Award'? Background of the Rebranding

For several years, JANIC has hosted student idea contests to inspire the next generation to think independently and take action on social issues. This year, the contest has been rebranded as the 'JANIC Youth Award,' evolving into a more accessible platform where more students can participate authentically. We aim to break down the perception that international cooperation is 'difficult' or 'not for me,' and instead support ideas and actions that anyone can practice in daily life.

2026 Theme: 'Saving the World, My Daily Life.'

This year's theme is 'Saving the World, My Daily Life.' We are calling for ideas and practical actions that reframe global social issues—such as poverty, environment, gender, migration, human rights, and peace—from your personal lifestyle and daily perspective.

Ideas that are still in concept form, actions you plan to start, or initiatives you've already begun are all eligible. Turn your 'concerns' into words and take that first step toward the future—please apply!

Two Benefits of Participating in This Award

① 'Prize Money & Gifts' to Support Your Challenge, Plus Special Invitations to Two Prestigious Events!

Winners will receive prize money and gifts as recognition for their daily actions and ideas. Additionally, special invitations to two major events hosted or co-hosted by JANIC are available.

[Prize Money & Gifts]

Grand Prize: ¥30,000

Action Award: ¥20,000

Idea Award: ¥20,000

Finalist: ¥5,000 digital QUO Card

(Note: For group winners, prizes will be awarded per group.)

[Event Invitation ①]

Special invitation to the awards ceremony at 'Global Festa Japan 2026,' Japan's largest international cooperation event.

(October 18, Sunday @ Sumitomo Building Triangle Plaza, Shinjuku)

[Event Invitation ②]

Special invitation to 'HAPIC — A Co-Creation Session to Transform Social Issues into 'Business' and 'Policy' and Update 'Organizations,'' a large conference hosted by JANIC. (Details to be announced later)

※ Travel expenses for both events must be covered by participants.

② Direct Feedback from Professionals at the Forefront of International Cooperation!

At the awards ceremony, leaders from international cooperation NGOs and judges actively driving social change will provide direct comments and feedback on your ideas. This is a valuable opportunity to deepen your concept with advice from professional perspectives.

Masanari Onimaru

Founder & Director, NPO Corporation Terra Renaissance

Yosuke Nagai

Representative Director, Certified NPO Accept International

Ruriko Kadota

Representative Director, NPO Corporation PLAS

Application Guidelines

Eligibility: High school, university, graduate, and vocational school students nationwide (individuals or groups welcome)

Application Period: Friday, June 19 – Sunday, September 27, 2026

Schedule:

June 19 (Fri): Application opens September 27 (Sun): Deadline September 28 (Mon) – October 7 (Wed): Selection period October 7 (Wed): Winners notified October 18 (Sun): Awards ceremony at Global Festa Japan 2026 ※ Venue: Sumitomo Building Triangle Plaza, Shinjuku ※ Dates may be subject to change. Thank you for your understanding.

How to Apply: Submit via the dedicated form on the official website (https://janic-ideacontest.jp/).

Inquiries

Japan Platform for International Cooperation on NGOs (JANIC)

Student Idea Contest Secretariat (Rino Connect Inc.)

Email: [email protected]

Youth Award Official Website: https://janic-ideacontest.jp/

About the Japan Platform for International Cooperation on NGOs (JANIC)

JANIC (pronounced 'Janic') is Japan's largest network NGO, committed to contributing to a peaceful, fair, and sustainable world. While over 400 Japanese international cooperation NGOs are active worldwide addressing issues like poverty, hunger, conflict, and disasters, many structural challenges remain difficult for individual organizations to solve alone. JANIC promotes collaboration among NGOs and with governments, corporations, and local authorities to maximize civil society's power and accelerate social issue resolution.

Established: 1987

Headquarters: 4F Nishiyama Building, Mingle, 4-7-1 Shiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Membership: 123 Full NGO Members (as of July 2026)

Official Website: https://www.janic.org/

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Source: PR TIMES
Category: キャンペーン

Applications Open! 'Saving the World, My Daily Life.' Student Idea Contest 'JANIC Youth Award 2026'

⚡ Key Points