As state funding stalls, medical researchers in Japan pivot to crowdfunding

Naoki Nishio, an associate professor of otolaryngology at Nagoya University, managed to raise some ¥4.2 million from 148 people through a crowdfunding campaign last year that had a first-stage goal of ¥3 million. | Naoki Nishio

Oct 6, 2026

A long-term study examining the effects of adding ultrasound to mammography for breast cancer screening. A smartphone app that allows people who have lost their voice to speak using their recorded voice.

These are examples of medical research that could save people’s lives or significantly improve their quality of life. They are also examples of research that has recently turned to crowdfunding for financing.

Amid stagnant government support for scientific research, crowdfunding has emerged as a key alternative funding source for researchers in Japan. Experts also attribute the rising costs of overseas research to recent cases of more medical researchers relying on donations.

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