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This week in Small Business Japan
A well-known Showa-era singer, Haruo Minami, sang the theme song for the Osaka Expo in 1970, 'Sekai no Kuni kara Konnichiwa' (Hello from Countries Around the World). This song became an iconic tune of the Expo and is widely known as one of Minami's signature songs.
This week in Small Business Japan
In Japanese, there are instances where the name given to something doesn't match its reality. Is euphemism the reason for this discrepancy? Is this just a Japanese phenomenon?
For your business
To discuss scholarships in Japan, it's important to clarify the situation first. There are two categories: a 'benefit type' (no repayment required) and a 'loan type' (repayment required after graduation). Both of these are called 'scholarships' in Japan.
Subsidies
The Japanese government has announced the 'Small Business Sustainability Subsidy (Startup Category),' providing up to ¥2m. Eligibility: Businesses within 3 years. This initiative offers crucial funding for startups to foster innovation and growth.
For your business
This MHLW grant supports spending on measures that enhance production efficiency for companies implementing 'Work Style Reform' to boost productivity.
For your business
In the previous article, we introduced an MHLW grant available to companies that employ single mothers and people with disabilities, which can be used for HR purposes. This article explains the grants available to companies that convert fixed-term employees to full-time status.
For your business
While Small Business Japan has typically focused on subsidies from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), this article introduces those provided by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW), which promote the improvement of the working environment and conditions at companies.
For your business
Its distinctive feature is the broader range of eligible uses compared to other general subsidies. However, it is also competitive, and the application process is time-consuming, making it hard to justify the time and effort. To gauge its competitiveness, I reviewed the data.
Subsidies
The Tokyo Startup Subsidy offers up to ¥4 million to eligible companies. Applications for the spring 2025 round are open until 17 April. However, due to its specific requirements, starting preparations this week is crucial.
For your business
Opening a corporate bank account is a must when doing business in Japan, as it can be used for funding and enhance your company's credibility. We have summarised the types and characteristics of financial institutions in Japan with a list of required documents and conditions.
For your business
Can you really be refused a corporate bank account just because you are a foreigner? To find out, we interviewed an immigration lawyer who has helped foreign business owners manage funding challenges, including opening corporate bank accounts in Japan for years.
This week in Small Business Japan
I've introduced a new section called 'Industry Outlook' to showcase business trends and ideas for those interested in starting a business in Japan.