TOMODACHI Tanaka Sangyo Agricultural Exchange Initiative 2026: Application Open

The TOMODACHI Tanaka Sangyo Agricultural Exchange Initiative is an 8-month leadership development program that brings together 20 undergraduate level students from partner institutions in Niigata, Japan and Texas, the United States. The program focuses on agriculture as a central subject to explore sustainability, innovation, and practice cross-cultural collaboration, while fostering leadership skills.

In a hybrid format with online sessions and in-person programs in both Texas and Niigata, participants will engage in lectures, site visits, and discussions with experts and peers. They will not only deepen their knowledge on agricultural practices, environments, and challenges that each region uniquely has but also explore innovative and collaborative approaches toward building a sustainable future for agriculture. 

By learning from both Japanese and American perspectives, participants gain practical insights into agriculture and strengthen their leadership skills to contribute to the interconnected world.

To learn more about the program, please visit the program website.

TOMODACHI Tanaka Sangyo Agricultural Exchange Initiative 2026 English Flyer

 

Application for U.S. Applicants 

Eligibility

To be eligible for and successful in the program, you must: 

• Be an undergraduate student from Texas A&M University at College Station campus in Texas, who studies at the College of Agriculture & Life Sciences or related study areas.
• Have a strong interest in agriculture, climate change, and food systems, and an aspiration to pursue a professional career in these areas.
• Have an interest in Japanese language and culture. 
• Complete the application form and submit all required information by the deadline.
• Be available to participate in an online selection interview.
• Be able to actively participate in the entire program (online and in-person).
• Have a strong desire to contribute to the future of the community and society through their learning from the program as TOMODACHI alumni.
• Have no or little experience of traveling overseas
• Be flexible and cooperative, able to adapt to different cultures, and in good physical and mental health.
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to continue to contribute to the U.S. and Japan relations.

Application Information & Timeline

• Submit Application: Complete the 2026 online application by detailing your background, interests in sustainability, and future plans. 
  • Application Deadline: October 5, 2025 at 11:59 pm CDT 
• Attend Interview: The interview is an opportunity for selected candidates to have in-depth discussion about your interests, understanding of sustainability, and your aspirations. 
  • Timeline: October 27- 31, 2025
• Receive Decision: 10 finalists will be notified of their status after interviews. 
  • Timeline: Late November 2025

*Participants will be initially screened based on their application information and selected candidates will be offered interviews online. Please indicate your availability for interviews on the application form.

Online Information Sessions

Please sign up to meet with the program coordinators and get your questions answered.  

• September 25 (Thu) at 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm CST 
• September 27 (Sat) at 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm CST

 

Overall Program Schedule
(for those accepted to the program)

Phase 1: Online Learning Component
Join the TOMODACHI Initiative orientation and explore leadership concepts while learning about agricultural practices and challenges in Japan and the United States. Prepare for the in-person program in Texas.
Dates: January – February 2026

Phase 2: In-Person Gathering in Texas, USA 
Gain hands-on experience with agricultural practices in Texas. Learn about cutting edge research areas on agriculture at the Texas A&M University campus.
Dates: March 2026

Phase 3: Online Learning Component 
Integrate what they learned in Texas and work on their own projects. Prepare for the in-person program in Niigata.
Dates: April – June 2026

Phase 4: In-Person Gathering in Niigata, JAPAN 
Explore traditional farming methods and local food systems. Examine the scientific aspects of food and agriculture at Niigata University and gain a comprehensive perspective by visiting local companies and organizations.
Dates: August 2026 

IMPORTANT: Participants must attend all sessions across each phase. Above schedules are subject to change.

 

Program Cost for U.S. Participants

Items that the program covers:

• Coursework and guest speakers
• Roundtrip air and ground travel between Texas and Niigata
• Accommodation, meals and transportation for international participants in Texas and Niigata
• Travel insurance for international travel

Items that the program scholarship does NOT cover:

• Passport application
• Visa application (if needed)
• Personal expenses outside program activities 
• Local transportation in College Station
• Cost to have the Internet environment and devices for online sessions

 

Other Reminders

• Engagement in all program phases is mandatory.
• Personal development and cross-cultural understanding are key program outcomes.

 

Contact Information 

Contact RootSpring, an implementing organization of the TOMODACHI Tanaka Sangyo Agricultural Exchange Initiative, at info@rootsring.org if you have any questions.

 

TOMODACHI Initiative

The TOMODACHI Initiative is a public-private partnership between the U.S.-Japan Council and the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo, with support from the Government of Japan. Born out of support for Japan’s recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake, TOMODACHI invests in the next generation of Japanese and American leaders through leadership programs. The initiative seeks to foster a “TOMODACHI Generation” of young American and Japanese leaders who are committed to and engaged in strengthening U.S.-Japan relations, appreciate each other’s countries and cultures, and possess the global skills and mindsets needed to contribute to and thrive in a more cooperative, prosperous, and secure world. Visit us at www.tomodachi.org

 

Program Partners

Administered by: U.S. Japan-Council TOMODACHI Initiative
Sponsored by: Tanaka Industry Co. Ltd.
Implemented by: RootSpring
Supported by: Niigata Prefecture, Joetsu City & Niigata City