About
A Better Future Foundation
A Better Future Foundation is a Japan-based philanthropic organization dedicated to addressing critical social issues that are often overlooked by existing philanthropic efforts.
Committed to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, the foundation focuses on long-term well-being for future generations, promoting issues such as the defense of democratic institutions, gender equality, climate change response, and support for immigrants and refugees. With an international perspective, it aims to strengthen collaboration between Japan and partners in the US, Europe, and the Indo-Pacific through strategic grantmaking and institutional support, contributing to a more open and resilient global community.
Mission
Our mission is to support efforts that protect democracy, uphold human rights, and strengthen social systems that safeguard human dignity.
With a responsibility to future generations, the Foundation focuses on under-supported social challenges and works through trust-based philanthropy, collaboration, and long-term engagement to contribute to a more open, free, and resilient society.
What Makes us different
The Foundation focuses on social issues that are often underfunded or difficult to address within existing philanthropic frameworks in Japan.
Rather than concentrating on widely supported fields, it prioritizes areas such as democracy support, public-interest litigation, migration and refugee rights, and trauma prevention. The Foundation is also international by design, working with global partners from its earliest stage to align local action with international best practices.
Focus Areas
A Better Future Foundation focuses on social challenges that are essential to democratic societies yet often under-supported within existing philanthropic frameworks.
Its work is organized around six focus areas, each addressing structural conditions that shape human dignity, social stability, and the future of democratic communities.
Our Strategy
A Better Future Foundation takes a phased, long-term approach to philanthropy, recognizing that complex social challenges require careful groundwork, collaboration, and sustained commitment.Its strategy unfolds across three stages, moving from foundation-building to expanded engagement and long-term impact.
Our Team
A Better Future Foundation is led by individuals with deep experience in philanthropy, public policy, academia, and the social sector.
Its leadership and governance bring together Japanese and international perspectives, with expertise spanning democracy support, human rights, law, and institutional development. This collective experience shapes the Foundation’s approach to strategic, responsible, and long-term philanthropy.