This week in Small Business Japan
Guide to spring 2025 startup subsidies
Given the rise in inquiries, I've compiled a list of previous articles that explain the recent openings and nature of subsidies. I hope this is helpful.
Subsidies
Subsidies
Japan startup subsidy up to ¥2m opening soon: Key funding opportunity for small businesses
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
HR-Focused MHLW Grants 3/3: Business funding for productivity initiatives
This MHLW grant supports spending on measures that enhance production efficiency for companies implementing 'Work Style Reform' to boost productivity.
This week in Small Business Japan
Why I'm critical about 'subsidies' but 'recommend' grants?
The Japanese government provides two main types of funding to companies: hojokin and joseikin. Generally, funding from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) is called hojokin, while funding from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) is called joseikin.
For your business
Tokyo Startup Subsidy: Difficulty and winning projects
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.
This week in Small Business Japan
The real test for subsidies is the submission of the activity report
My client received full approval for their subsidy application of ¥11m when the government accepted the activity report! It was such a long journey. While it has been a long process, I am delighted that my client's project is progressing with the support of the subsidy.
Subsidies
Tokyo Startup Subsidy: This week is your last chance to get ready!
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.
This week in Small Business Japan
The evolution of non-profit work in Japan (10 years on)
My interview with Makoto Yamada, the founder and representative of SEIBO Japan, a Japanese non-profit, brought back memories of my time working at an international NGO in Tokyo.
This week in Small Business Japan
Are subsidies 'free money?'
I hope you've all had a wonderful start to 2025! I know it's early in the new year, but I've published an article about the Tokyo Startup Subsidy, which is likely to be offered around spring.
For your business
Small business under 5 years old? Secure advantage of public support
Municipalities offer the 'Business Support Plan for Startups', which helps small businesses under five years old meet a key requirement of startup subsidies, such as the one of Tokyo, on more favourable terms. Pre-establishment businesses can also benefit from reduced registration tax.
For your business
Tokyo Startup Subsidy: What is it and how to apply?
The Startup Subsidy offered by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government is a great funding opportunity for new and small businesses that are less than five years old. It is particularly recommended if you're an (aspiring) entrepreneur tackling social challenges or have a very good business model.
Announcement
Get expert subsidy application assistance for your business
The operator of Small Business Japan, Posse Nippon, can assist you in preparing the necessary documents and proceeding with the application.