Cybersecurity Roadshow | FUKUOKA PAS FY24 01

Cybersecurity Roadshow (U.S. Mission to Japan) - FAQs

1) What is the Cybersecurity Roadshow grant?

The Cybersecurity Roadshow is a discretionary grant opportunity from the U.S. Mission to Japan focused on strengthening cybersecurity readiness and awareness through in-person (or event-based) programming in Japan. The project is designed to build practical capacity and stronger networks among cybersecurity stakeholders, not just deliver one-time awareness messaging.

2) What regions in Japan does the roadshow focus on?

The roadshow targets two strategically important regions: Central Japan and Kyushu.

3) Why are Central Japan and Kyushu being prioritized?

Central Japan is described as a manufacturing hub with major aerospace and automotive supply chains that remain exposed to cyber threats. Kyushu, often called "Silicon Island," is presented as a fast-growing center for semiconductor design and production, with universities and SMEs that need more modern cyber defenses. The broader intent is to strengthen Japan's economic security and protect industries tied to global supply chains.

4) What is the main goal of the funded project?

The underlying goal is to bolster Japan's economic security by improving cybersecurity awareness, upgrading cyber education (with a particular emphasis on universities in Kyushu), and reinforcing protections for critical infrastructure and key industries supporting global supply chains.

5) What kinds of activities or events are expected under this grant?

The project is expected to deliver cybersecurity-focused events in both Central Japan and Kyushu. Proposed formats can include panel discussions, conferences, and workshops. The events are intended to convene stakeholders from government, academia, the private sector, and civil society who are involved in cybersecurity and digital innovation.

6) Who should be included as participants or stakeholders in the events?

The opportunity emphasizes bringing together Japanese stakeholders across government, academia, private sector, and civil society, especially those responsible for cybersecurity and digital innovation.

7) Is there a requirement to involve U.S. experts?

Yes. A strong emphasis is placed on involving both U.S. and Japanese cybersecurity experts as speakers, trainers, or presenters.

8) What topics can the roadshow cover?

Examples of themes referenced in the opportunity include:

• Public-private cooperation on cybersecurity
• Protection of critical infrastructure
• How cybersecurity is taught in the United States
• Emerging issues at the intersection of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence

9) Is the roadshow meant to be awareness-only, or should it lead to measurable improvements?

The intent is knowledge-sharing and capacity-building rather than one-off awareness messaging. Programming is expected to support real improvements in practices, partnerships, and education.

10) What costs can be included in the project budget?

Budgets may include typical implementation expenses, such as:

• Round-trip international airfare between Japan and the United States for U.S. speakers
• Local transportation and lodging
• Operational event expenses (for example venue rental, consumable supplies, interpretation, and other necessary conference costs)

11) Can the grantee charge admission or participation fees to attend the events?

No. The opportunity explicitly states the program is not intended to generate profit, and grantees are not allowed to charge admission or participation fees.

12) Can the roadshow be used as a fundraiser for a charitable organization?

No. The events may not be used as fundraisers for charitable organizations.

13) Are there specific travel rules that must be followed for U.S.-funded travel?

Yes. Applicants need to account for U.S. government travel compliance rules, including Fly America Act requirements. In general, international air travel paid with U.S. federal funds for U.S. speakers must use U.S.-flag carriers or eligible U.S. code-share options when available.

14) What is the Fly America Act and why does it matter for this grant?

The opportunity flags Fly America Act compliance as a requirement when using U.S. federal funds for international airfare for U.S. speakers. This affects which airlines (U.S.-flag carriers or eligible code-share options when available) can be used when booking travel charged to the award.

15) Is a media engagement plan required?

Yes. A clear media engagement plan is a notable application requirement. Applicants are expected to explain how they will promote the roadshow, share updates and public-facing activities, and coordinate on media appearances.

16) What coordination is expected with U.S. Consulates?

Applicants should address how often they will coordinate with the U.S. Consulates in Fukuoka and Nagoya on project experiences and media appearances. Proposals should also show willingness to collaborate with the consulates to shape and amplify public messaging through official public engagement channels.

17) Why is coordinated communications with the consulates important in this opportunity?

The grant description suggests visibility and coordinated communications are a meaningful part of the expected outcomes, not just an add-on. Applicants are expected to plan for promotion, public updates, and collaboration with the consulates on messaging.

18) Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility is broad and includes both U.S. and non-U.S. organizations, including:

• Local governments
• Public and private institutions of higher education
• Nonprofits (including those without 501(c)(3) status)
• For-profit organizations (other than small businesses)
• Small businesses
• Eligible tribal governments and tribal organizations

19) Are non-U.S. organizations allowed to apply?

Yes. The eligible applicant list includes U.S. and non-U.S. organization types.

20) If an applicant is based outside Japan, is a local partner recommended?

Yes. Applicants applying from outside Japan are encouraged to partner with Japan-based organizations to support on-the-ground implementation and coordination with local stakeholders.

21) What is the funding opportunity number and CFDA listing?

The funding opportunity number is FUKUOKA PAS FY24 01. The listing is under CFDA 19.040.

22) What is the maximum award amount?

The award ceiling is $50,000.

23) How many awards are expected?

The opportunity states an expectation of one award.

24) What was the original application closing date?

The original closing date was April 30, 2024.

25) What makes a strong proposal based on the opportunity description?

Based on the stated expectations, a strong proposal would typically align programming to both regions (Central Japan and Kyushu), include U.S. and Japanese expert participation, focus on practical capacity-building, and present a clear and collaborative media engagement plan that includes regular coordination with the U.S. Consulates in Fukuoka and Nagoya.