The JAC Environmental & Animal Protection Foundation (President: Hiromi Tajima, headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo) is pleased to announce the results of its 2026 grant selection, providing a total of 146.68 million yen in funding to 131 organizations. The foundation conducts open calls for proposals from organizations engaged in activities aimed at "conserving rare wildlife" and "improving animal welfare," providing partial financial support for their projects. The 2026 grant program focused on five key areas: (1) companion animals, (2) horses, (3) farm animals, (4) zoos and aquariums, and (5) wildlife. Continuing from the previous year, grants were allocated to projects involving farm animals and horses. Examples of supported initiatives in these areas include installing equipment at small-scale free-range egg farms that prioritize animal welfare, improving living conditions for pigs on pasture-based pig farms, and enhancing facilities at retirement farms for racehorses and breeding horses no longer active in production. These areas often face challenges in securing support, and the foundation intends to continue actively promoting such welfare initiatives. In 2026, the foundation received applications from 180 organizations nationwide. After rigorous evaluation by an expert selection committee, 131 organizations were selected to receive grants. We hope the funded projects will thrive and make significant progress, and we remain committed to raising awareness and promoting animal and natural environmental conservation across Japan. [Overview of the JAC Environmental & Animal Protection Foundation 2026 Grant Program] ・Application Period: February 2, 2026 – April 10, 2026 ・Number of Grantee Organizations: 131 ・Total Grant Amount: 146.68 million yen ・Grant Period: July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027 ・Grant Recipient Activity Areas: 1. Companion Animals: 54 projects 2. Horses: 27 projects 3. Farm Animals: 17 projects 4. Zoos and Aquariums: 9 projects 5. Wildlife: 24 projects Fo