The Bio-oriented Technology Research Advancement Institution (BRAIN) is the sole funding agency in Japan dedicated exclusively to supporting research and development in the fields of agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and the food industry. Since its establishment in 1986, the institute has commonly been known as "BRAIN," an acronym derived from its English name, the Bio-oriented Technology Research Advancement InstitutioN.
Agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and the food industries play an indispensable role in ensuring national food security and dietary well-being, enriching people's lives, sustaining regional communities, and preserving the land and environment. In recent years, they have also attracted growing expectations as engines of economic growth and drivers of export.
At the same time, these sectors face a wide array of pressing challenges: securing stable food supplies in light of global geopolitical developments, strengthening industrial competitiveness, addressing the shortage of human resources at production sites, and reconciling productivity with responses to climate change and environmental conservation. To meet these challenges - ranging from those of global scale to those faced in the field - the role of innovation through the application of advanced technologies has become ever more critical.
In this context, BRAIN solicits and selects outstanding research proposals from private companies, universities, public research institutions, national research and development agencies, and other organizations. By providing research funding and comprehensive support, BRAIN advances the development of innovative technologies and ensures their effective implementation in society.
Specifically, under the policies of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, BRAIN is currently implementing programs such as the Research and Implementation Promotion Program through Open Innovation and the Development and Supply Program of Smart Agricultural Technology. In addition, as part of cross-government initiatives led by the Cabinet Office, BRAIN is contributing to major national programs including the Moonshot Research and Development Program for Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, the Cross-ministerial Strategic Innovation Promotion Program (SIP), and the Startup Supporting Program (supporting SBIR (Small/Startup Business Innovation Research)).
Going forward, BRAIN remains committed to working closely with government bodies, research institutions, industry, and other stakeholders to foster innovation in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and the food industry, thereby contributing to a more sustainable and prosperous future.
We sincerely ask for your continued understanding and support.
August 2025
Kō Morishita
Director-General, Bio-oriented Technology Research Advancement Institution (BRAIN)