The Asian Cultural Council (ACC) advances international dialogue, understanding, and respect through cultural exchange activities in Asia and the United States to create a more harmonious and peaceful world. This mission is accomplished through fellowships, grants, and other programs that support individual artists, scholars, arts professionals, and arts and cultural organizations.

Established by John D. Rockefeller 3rd in 1963 as the Asian Cultural Program of the JDR 3rd Fund to support cultural exchange in Asia and the US through grants to individuals and organizations working in the visual and performing arts, ACC incorporated as a 501(c)3 nonprofit in 1980. Based in New York City, ACC established offices as well as partner foundations in Tokyo (1983), Hong Kong (1986), Taipei (1995), and Manila (2000). To date, ACC has supported over 6,000 exchanges across 26 countries and regions and 16 artistic disciplines.

As a grantmaking and grant seeking organization, ACC raises funds from individuals, foundations, and corporate donors. ACC also convenes arts leaders, fostering dialogue around the importance of cultural exchange in developing understanding and respect across international and cultural borders. Fellowships to individuals include not only grant funds to cover the costs of international travel, per diem, and research activities, but also substantial program support in the form of professional guidance, introductions to artists and other cultural leaders, and extensive logistical assistance.