Bukkyo Dendo Kyokai America Incorporated
BDK America is the U.S. branch of Bukkyō Dendō Kyōkai (Society for the Promotion of Buddhism) promoting understanding of Buddhism through publications, translations (English Tripitaka), scholarship programs, and awards. The site lists organizational history and activities and shows recent news updates (2025–2026).
Source: Website · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
An established nonprofit or academic program focused on Buddhist studies, translations, religious education, or cultural heritage with ties to the foundation's existing network or to California.
Good Fit
- • Mission explicitly connected to promotion of Buddhism, Buddhist scholarship, translations, or related educational work.
- • Track record with universities, divinity schools, cultural institutions, or established temples and study centers.
- • Existing relationship, prior collaboration, or an introduction from a known grantee or board contact.
- • Organizational credibility and capacity to receive general support or institutional grants.
Geography
Giving in the latest year reached recipients in six states, showing a multi-state footprint, but about 70% of dollars were concentrated in California.
Recipient Variety
The latest year shows 13 distinct recipients and a mix of award sizes with both returning grantees (7) and new grantees (6), but dollars are heavily concentrated in a few large recipients (top five = 91%).
New Applicants
Direct evidence of recipient turnover exists (several new grantees), but the foundation states grants are to preselected recipients and operates by invitation, so unfamiliar applicants are not clearly able to apply without relationship entry points.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
