Abstract
This study examines the revenue structure of academic research-oriented nonprofit organizations
(NPOs) in Japan and analyzes the challenges associated with financial sustainability. Japanese
academic NPOs rely on diversified funding sources, including membership fees, donations, grants, commissioned research, consulting services, and intellectual property utilization. However, excessive dependence on project-based competitive funding has increased financial instability and organizational vulnerability. By reviewing previous studies on nonprofit management and public service provision, this paper argues that diversified fundraising strategies and cross-sector partnerships are essential for sustainable organizational management. The study further highlights the importance of transparency, institutional credibility, and the social dissemination of research outcomes in strengthening financial foundations. The findings suggest that academic NPOs should develop balanced revenue portfolios combining flexible private funding with competitive public resources to maintain long-term research capacity and public trust.
