Guide to Subsidies in Japan

Subsidies in Japan play a pivotal role in supporting local businesses, serving as fuel for growth and innovation across various industries. These financial incentives not only provide essential support to companies but also foster economic development and job creation. Today’s growth-minded business climate allows business owners of all kinds to utilize these subsidies in Japan. Even foreign business owners are eligible for such support. For further resources for foreign entrepreneurs hoping to expand their ventures to Japan, read our article on Setting Up Your Company in Japan. 

There may be hardships in navigating through subsidies in Japan and other support, especially for foreign entrepreneurs. This article aims to help you understand the intricacies of Japan’s subsidy system and give you a list of subsidies to reference, with ease. 

What is a subsidy and how is it different?

The Japanese government has a wide range of support and incentives that it awards and grants businesses across different industries. To learn more about financial support offered by the Japanese government, listen to our podcast on how to Get Japanese Government Money for Your Business with Miho Tanaka. 

One example of support is a subsidy, which is financial aid given by a government or organization to individuals, businesses, or sectors for specific purposes such as economic development, social welfare, or industry promotion. It differs from the range of incentives available in a number of ways but first, we should define an incentive. 

What is an incentive?

Government incentives for businesses are policies, programs, or measures implemented by governments at various levels (local, regional, national) to stimulate economic growth, investment, and job creation within their jurisdictions. These incentives are aimed at fostering a favorable business environment, attracting new businesses, retaining existing ones, and promoting overall economic development.

Government agencies such as the Japanese Ministry of Trade, Economy, and Industry (METI), the Japanese External Trade Organization (JETRO), the Japan Finance Corporation (JFC), Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), and other regional or local agencies lead the forefront in handling incentives. 

Government incentives can take various forms, but mainly focus on tax incentives: These are reductions or exemptions in taxes, such as corporate income tax, property tax, or sales tax. That can include tax credits, deductions, and deferrals, which can significantly reduce a business’s financial burden and increase its profitability.

The following are examples of tax incentives on a national level compiled from the JETRO website page:

Establishment and Relocation in Special Regions Taxation 

Title of Incentive Program	Establishment of headquarters within regional revitalization areas (including foreign direct investment into Japan)	In the case of headquarters functions relocation within regional revitalization areas from the 23 wards of Tokyo	General requirements	Corresponding Authorities
Employment Promotion taxation	Tax credit of up to 600,000 JPY per new employee.	Tax credit of up to 900,000 JPY per new employee.	(1)Being a business owner who submits a blue tax return(2) There must be no employees (details in MLHW’s webpage) who left the company for reasons of the employer during the applicable year and the previous business year (3) Must not be a business owner who runs an “amusement” business (details in MLHW’s webpage) (4) The office tax reduction (a system that allows special depreciation or tax credits for the acquisition cost of buildings, etc. of specific business facilities) is not applied in the applicable fiscal year. See MLHW’s webpage for more details on the application for employment promotion taxation incentive *Japanese only Also see this pamphlet regarding this incentive and the application through this brochure for applications after the fiscal year 2023 (not updated yearly)	Office for Promotion of Overcoming Population Decline and Vitalizing Local Economy in Japan, Cabinet Office (Employment Policy Division, Employment Security Bureau, Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare) *Japanese only
Capital investment tax cut (tax cut for offices or local bases)	Tax measures: 15% special depreciation or 4% tax deduction on the acquisition value of specified business facilities	Tax measures: 25% special depreciation or 7% tax deduction on the acquisition value of specified business facilities	(1) Target: Buildings, attached facilities and structures of specific business facilities (headquarters function) (2) Acquisition price: 20 million yen or more (10 million yen or more for small and medium enterprises) (3) Read this pamphlet for target areas and non-target areas See The Secretariat of the Cabinet Secretariat Digital Garden City National Concept Realization Council Secretariat and the Cabinet Office Regional Revitalization Promotion Secretariat’s webpage for more details on the application for capital investment tax cut *Japanese only	Office for Promotion of Overcoming Population Decline and Vitalizing Local Economy in Japan, Cabinet Office (Regional Business Innovation Promotion Division, Regional Economic and Industrial Policy Group, Economic And Industrial Policy Bureau, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry) *Japanese only
Tax exemption or unequal taxation of local taxes	Organizations holding valid certifications might become eligible for allowances or deductions concerning corporate income taxes (applicable solely in situations involving the transition from the 23 special wards of Tokyo), taxes related to property acquisition, and levies imposed by regional governing bodies.		N/A	Local authorities of designation of relocation, or expansion

Capital Investment Taxation 

Title	Overview	General Requirements	The Competent Authorities
Special taxation measure regarding capital investment	Procedure: Foreign-affiliated companies can also use this system, on the condition that they prepare a “project of business which can stimulate the local economy’’ in accordance with the basic plans prepared by the relevant prefecture and municipality, obtain the approval of the prefecture for the project and receive confirmation from the competent minister pursuant to the  Taxation measures: Machinery, appliances and fixtures: 40% special depreciation, 4% tax deduction (When certain requirements are met, 50% special depreciation, 5% tax deduction)Buildings, attached facilities and structures of specific business facilities： 20% special depreciation, 2% tax deductionMaximum amount of tax deduction: 20% of the amount of corporate or income tax in the period concerned	(1) Capital investment done in accordance with an approved business plan (and requiring confirmation pursuant to article 24 of the act)(2) Total acquisition cost subject to support: 8 billion yen See this METI webpage for more details on the application for employment promotion taxation incentive and for contact information *Japanese only	Business Environment Promotion Division, Regional Economic and Industrial Policy Group, Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry
Tax exemption or unequal taxation of local taxes	Confirmed companies (requiring confirmation pursuant to article 24 of the act) may be able to receive exemptions or reductions on property acquisition taxes and property taxes by local authorities.	N/A	Local authorities

Research and Development Tax Deductions

Title	Overview		Corresponding Authorities
Tax Deduction System for Research and Development (R&D Tax Credit System)	Tax benefits allow private companies to deduct a portion of their research and development expenses from their corporate taxes (national tax) for the specified fiscal year. Please see METI’s webpage for their Outline of the R&D Tax Credit System: The total expenditure-based tax credit system (the current tax credit rate: 6-14% in principle; 12-17% for SMEs.The application period of the high-level type tax credit system is extended until the end of FY2018.	Please see METI’s webpage for their Outline of the R&D Tax Credit System	Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (The Innovation and industry-University Collaboration Division)
Promotion of Open Innovation	Tax credit for the total amount of expenses for joint or contract research with universities, national research institutes, etc. Tax credit is the total amount of special R&D expenses times 20% or 30%. * For joint or contract research with universities and national research institutes, etc. = 30% *Other cases (joint research between companies, etc.) = 20%	Please see METI’s webpage for their  Tax Deduction System for Research and Development (R&D Tax Credit System	Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (The Innovation and industry-University Collaboration Division)

These incentives can vary widely depending on the specific goals of the government, the industry, and the region. However, they all share the common objective of encouraging business growth and economic prosperity by providing businesses with tangible benefits. 

Essentially, the difference between incentives and subsidies is that subsidies are a form of incentive in the form of direct financial aid that may or may not need to be repaid. Beyond that, there are differences that make up categories of subsidies in Japan which we will explore. 

What are the types of subsidies in Japan?

In the supportive economic landscape of Japan, subsidies cover a wide range of expenses that would be otherwise hefty for an SME to pay. In this article, we explore the three prominent categories of subsidies in Japan, namely labor and employment subsidies, local economy advancement and promotion subsidies, and disaster support subsidies. We also provide a list of subsidies in Japan for each category to better support those looking to apply. 

In general, the government agencies that handle each type of subsidy should be recognized and noted. MHLW subsidies are intended for labor and employment subsidies in Japan, METI subsidies are intended for industrial development, MEXT subsidies are intended for education and research, and municipal governments provide subsidies in Japan for local employment and industrial development.

What are labor and employment subsidies in Japan? 

Japan’s commitment to fostering a robust workforce is reflected in its labor and employment subsidies. These incentives are designed to stimulate job creation, enhance skills training, and support individuals seeking employment. From encouraging employers to hire and retain workers to providing financial aid for skill development programs, labor, and employment subsidies drive workforce empowerment. The following table contains a few examples of subsidies in Japan available from the MHLW’s subsidy support. For a complete directory of these subsidies in Japan, a list is available on MHLW’s website. 

Title	Overview of Subsidy	General requirements	Maximum Amount	Subsidy Period
Employment Development Subsidy for Specified Job Seekers (Employment Ice Age Generation Stable Employment Realization Course)	For employers who hire people who have difficulty finding regular employment due to a lack of sufficient career development due to missed opportunities for regular employment during the so-called employment ice age, etc. will be subsidized.	Employers who hire new regular employees (for details, read the requirements on MHLW’s webpage) who meet all of [1] to [5] on the day of employment provide subsidies in Japan to (1) Those born between April 2, 1968 and April 1, 1988  (2) In the last five years, starting from the day prior to the date of employment, individuals who have held a regular employment position for a cumulative duration of one year or less (for details, read the requirements on MHLW’s webpage) are eligible (3) Have been employed as a regular employee, etc. within the past one year counting from the day before the date of employment (4) Those who do not have a stable job or do not have a job at the time of introduction to Hello Work, etc., and are receiving support for employment such as individual support from Hello Work, etc. *Hello Work is Japan’s unemployment Government Ministry, available for foreigners and locals (5) Those who wish to be employed as regular workers	[Large companies] 500,000 JPY [SMEs] 600,000 JPY	1 Year
Subsidies for construction business owners, etc.	This subsidy program offers assistance to small and medium-sized construction businesses (specifically primary ones) in establishing facilities such as women-only restrooms, and changing rooms, shower areas, and washrooms as part of the efforts to support and improve the environment for female workers at construction sites.	SMEs that employ female construction workers	Non-financial12 courses will be provided regarding the betterment of construction sites as workplaces for women	N/A
Regional Employment Development Subsidy (Okinawa Youth Employment Promotion Course)	In Okinawa Prefecture, along with the establishment and maintenance of business offices, business owners who hire young job seekers under the age of 35 who live in Okinawa Prefecture are subsidized.	Submission of plan:(1) Establishment and maintenance of business establishments, along with a plan to hire target workers.(2) The plan must be recognized as contributing to employment development  Establishment and maintenance of offices (1) The facility/equipment must be used for business necessary for the expansion of employment. (2) The installation and maintenance shall be carried out during the period from the planning date to the completion date (3) The cost required for installation and maintenance is 200,000 yen or more per contract, and the total amount is 1 million yen or more. Employment of subject workers (1) “Target workers” in this course are job seekers who are a resident of Okinawa Prefecture and those who are under 35 years of age at the time of employment (2) The establishment must hire at least 3 people between the planning date and the completion date as well as as a regular insured person under the employment insurance, and expected to continue to be employed even after the payment of this subsidy ends. Appoint a person in charge of retention guidance by the planned date, and ensure that the hired person is settled in the workplace. Employment of new graduates from Okinawa Employment of new graduates residing in Okinawa Prefecture (additional requirements on website) The number of employment insurance: Insured persons at installation and maintenance establishments on the completion date exceeds the number on the day before the planned date	1,200,000 JPY	1 year
Regional Employment Development Grant (Regional Employment Development Course)	If a business owner in an area where employment opportunities are particularly scarce establishes and maintains an office and employs job seekers living in the area, the installation and maintenance costs and the target Subsidized according to the increased number of workers.	[First Payment] Submit a plan to the labor bureau director for facilities, equipment installation, and job provision within approved employment development areas. Serve local job seekers. Install and maintain business facilities during an 18-month planning period. Subsidies up to ¥3,000,000 or ¥200,000 per item. Employ 3+ individuals (2 for startups) from the area via Hello Work, excluding short-term and day laborers. Increase insured workers by 3 (2 for startups) from pre-plan levels on completion. [Second and Third Payments] Maintain insured worker count ≥ completion date at 1 and 2-year marks. Retain workers as per completion date count. Post-completion departures (<2.5 workers or <50% target) allowed limited supplementation.	Depends on the maintenance cost and Number of employees	1 year
Subsidies for construction business owners, etc. (former subsidies for securing and training construction workers)	A business that leases worker facilities exclusively for female construction workers who work at construction sites managed by small and medium-sized primary construction business owners	Medium Principal Construction Business Owners (Limited to business owners to whom the employment insurance rate for “construction business” is applied.)	600,000 JPY per fiscal year	1-12 months (Months in which female construction workers work less than 10 days are not eligible for subsidies in Japan)

What are disaster support subsidies in Japan?

Natural disasters pose significant threats to any nation’s stability. Disaster support subsidies in Japan play a pivotal role in ensuring communities are equipped to withstand and recover from unforeseen calamities. These subsidies in Japan provide financial assistance for disaster preparedness initiatives, infrastructure reinforcement, and recovery efforts. By doing so, they aid in fortifying the nation’s resilience, minimizing the adverse impact of disasters on both the economy and the population.

For example, small businesses were widely supported in Japan during the COVID-19 pandemic through subsidies for the purchase of iPads, the movement towards website creation, and employee family support. The following list of subsidies in Japan is for national-scale subsidies so it does not include any local government subsidies. Any local government subsidies in Japan and their details must be researched through local government websites. 

Title		Subsidized Projects	Eligible Costs	Subsidy Rates/Maximum Amount	The Competent Authorities
Subsidy Program for New Business Establishment in the Areas Recovering from Tsunami and Nuclear Disaster towards Employment Creation [Manufacturing business site location support project ]		A subsidy program for the establishment of new factories (manufacturing), distribution facilities, research laboratories, call centers, data centers and others, so as to activate the regional economy through employment creation in the areas within prefectures inundated by the tsunami and Tohoku Earthquake and the areas in Fukushima prefecture affected by the nuclear power station accident and where the evacuation order has been lifted.	Initial expenditure for factory/facility location covering from acquisition of land to construction of buildings and installation of production equipment	Up to 1/3 for large companies, 1/2 for SMEs [Maximum subsidy: 3 billion yen] * 5 billion yen for projects which are particularly highly valued by a third-party committee in municipalities affected by the tsunami	Regional Industrial Infrastructure Division, Regional Economic and Industrial Policy Group, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry *Japanese only
Subsidy for Business Location for Reconstruction of Industry in Fukushima *Japanese only		Provide subsidies for the location of factory (manufacturing sector), distribution facilities, R&D facilities, call center, and others to create an expansion of production capacity and sustainable creation of employment in Fukushima prefecture suffered damage in wide areas hit by Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster.	Initial cost of installing machinery and equipment (excluding renewal and replacement)	Subsidy equivalent to 1/3 or less than the amount of investment is offered for large businesses, 1/2 for SMEs.  [Maximum subsidy: 1 Billion yen] *In case the governor issues special permission, cap is raised to 3 billion yen.	Fukushima Reconstruction Promotion Group, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry *Japanese only Firm location section, Commercial and industrial Labor Relations Division, Fukushima Prefecture
Subsidies for Employment toward Reconstruction of Industry in Fukushima	Employment costs	Subsidies for employment victims by the national and local governments	Expenses for employing disaster victims seeking employment	SMEs up to 1.2 million yen Large companies up to 2.25 million yen	Section in charge of grants, Employment Administration Division, Commercial and industrial Labor Relations Department, Fukushima Prefecture
	Costs of housing support	Housing allowances and expenses related to company by national and local governments	Housing allowances and expenses related to company-rented houses or apartment buildings	Subsidies will amount to 3/4 of expenses eligible for subsidization.Maximum subsidy per enterprise: 2.4 million yen per year.

What are local economic advancement and promotion subsidies in Japan?

At the heart of Japan’s economic diversity lie its local economies. To invigorate these regional engines of growth, local economic advancement and promotion subsidies in Japan take center stage. By offering financial backing for infrastructure development, entrepreneurship initiatives, and community-based projects, these subsidies in Japan breathe life into local businesses, attract investments, and amplify the overall economic vitality of different regions across Japan. The following are a few examples of subsidies in Japan that help advance the local economy. 

Title	General requirements	Maximum Amount	Corresponding Authority
Project for Temporary Office Allocation for Foreign Financial Companies and Human Resources	Only available for the companies who do not have a registered company or branch office in Japan at the time of the usage application submission date (group companies included).  Only available for the companies who currently has a company or branch office in Asia, or are considering establishing one in these Asian regions. All applications must be for subsidies in Japan for companies planning to open in Japan.	Office Rents: Actual costs for office rent will be exempted for up to 300,000 yen (≒USD 2,800) per month, up to 3 months Initial Costs: Actual initial costs will be exempted for up to 200,000 yen (≒USD 1,800) regardless of the contract period	Tokyo Office of the Governor for Policy Planning
Subsidies for Business Establishment and Operation in Tokyo	Only available for the companies who do not have a registered company or branch office in Japan at the time of the usage application submission date (group companies included).  Only available for the companies who currently has a company or branch office in Asia, or are considering establishing one in these Asian regions. All applications must be for subsidies in Japan for companies planning to open in Japan.	Office Rents: Actual costs for office rent will be exempted for up to 300,000 yen (≒USD 2,800) per month, up to 3 months  Initial Costs: Actual initial costs will be exempted for up to 200,000 yen (≒USD 1,800) regardless of the contract period	Tokyo Office of the Governor for Policy Planning
Overseas Financial Corporation Business Establishment Subsidy Program for Office and Consultation Expenses	Only available for the companies who not yet have a registered office in Japan. In order to apply for the financial subsidies in Japan, disclosure of basic company financial information is required.  A prior consultation meeting with TMG must be conducted for pre-approval.At least one person hired must be covered by employment insurance in order to receive the financial incentives.	Experts Consultation  Recruitment Office initial costs  •Covers 1/2 cost up to 7.5 million yen (≒USD 68k, reimbursable, receipt required).  • Eligible cost will the cost incurred after conducting prior consultation meeting with the TMG and within the fiscal year (April – March) of the office establishment.	Tokyo Office of the Governor for Policy Planning
Subsidy Program for Non-Yokohama Companies Establishing Offices in Yokohama for the First Time (child rearing, mobility, and decarbonization)	Floor area must fit the subsidy amounts listed. Additionally, the company must be in the fields of child-rearing, mobility, and decarbonization located in Yokohama for the first time	Total of ① and ② shown below Up to 5.0 Million JPY① Basic amount 500,000 JPY per 50m2 floor area（Up to 2.5 Million JPY） ② Additional amount 500,000 JPY per 50m2 floor area（Up to 2.5 Million JPY）	Business Attraction and Development Division, Economic Affairs Bureau, City of Yokohama
Subsidy Program for Non-Yokohama Companies Establishing Offices in Yokohama for the First Time (other industries)	Not listed	① 500,000 yen per 50m2 floor area（Up to 2.5 million yen） ② 100,000 yen per 10 m2 floor area （Up to 1.25 million yen）	Business Attraction and Development Division, Economic Affairs Bureau, City of Yokohama

What are special economic zones and why are they important?

Special Economic Zones (SEZs) hold a strategic position as catalysts for growth and innovation. These designated areas operate under unique regulatory frameworks, acting as testing grounds for innovative economic policies while attracting domestic and foreign investments. One of the most enticing features of Japanese SEZs is the prospect of reduced corporate taxes, a draw that not only spurs business expansion within these zones but also beckons international companies to establish their presence, thus enriching Japan’s economic environment. Subsidies in Japan are abundant and concentrated in these areas.

Beyond tax incentives, SEZs offer a comprehensive package of benefits. This includes streamlined regulations, simplified customs procedures, and enhanced infrastructure support, fostering an environment ripe for business expansion, technological breakthroughs, and heightened productivity. As Japan continues to strategically develop these zones, the nation reinforces its position as an engine of progress, embracing entrepreneurship, international collaboration, and a sustained trajectory of economic vibrancy. Through SEZs, Japan charts a course toward a future defined by innovation, resilience, and sustained economic dynamism.

Each region in Japan holds a designation for what the Japanese government and the local government hope it can become. This means they each have special benefits that we list here. While many SEZs exist across Japan, these two examples below are more open to foreign business owners.

• Okinawa (Okinawa region) is deemed a special economic zone making it have the benefits of a 40% corporate/national tax deduction, subsidies for land and building expenses up to 25% (1 billion JPY), seed funding, and youth employment promotion incentive of up to 1.2 Million JPY per worker under 35. Okinawa’s SEZ focuses on industries such as tourism, resort development, and healthcare. 
• Fukuoka City (Kyushu region) is deemed a special economic zone making it have the benefits of a 22% corporate/national tax deduction, startup subsidies, seed funding, and financial aid for renting office and residential spaces up to 50% of the cost. Fukuoka’s SEZ focuses on industries such as IoT, International, Medicine, Agriculture, and Advanced IT. 

Title	Overview	The Competent Authorities
National Strategic Special Zone *Japanese-only	Special regulatory measures, tax treatment (for corporate income tax), and financial/monetary support are available for companies with business plans in National Strategic Special Zones.	Headquarters for the Regional Revitalization Cabinet Office,  Governments of Japan *Japanese only
Comprehensive Special Zones *View for “English”	Special regulatory measures, tax credit (for corporate income tax), and fiscal/financial support are available for companies with business plans in designated zones. CSZs have two types: those for international competitiveness and those for local revitalization. CSZs aim to provide tailored, integrated support for comprehensive and strategic challenges in selected regions.	Headquarters for the Regional Revitalization Cabinet Office,  Governments of Japan *Japanese only
Special Zones for Reconstruction	Special measures such as deregulation, tax incentives, etc. are available for companies with business plans in disaster-afflicted areas.	Reconstruction Agency

How can I file for a subsidy?

When seeking to tap into the diverse pool of available subsidies in Japan, the application process can often be difficult. Contrary to the common assumption that accountants manage subsidy filings, it’s actually scriveners you should seek. Accountants are mainly responsible for consultations about subsidies in Japan but scriveners actually file them. 

To gain consultation on subsidy applications or just to learn more about accountants, our Ultimate Guide to an Accountant in Japan can provide valuable insights on how. This resource offers a comprehensive understanding of how accountants can assist businesses in various aspects, helping you to make informed decisions when seeking financial assistance, especially about subsidies in Japan.

Ultimate Guide to an Accountant in Japan

What is a scrivener and why would I want one?

Scriveners, often overlooked in favor of accountants, hold a specialized role in facilitating successful applications for subsidies in Japan. These professionals are well-versed in the intricacies of subsidy regulations and procedures, ensuring that your application adheres to all necessary requirements. However, it’s essential to understand what scriveners do and why they are integral to the process.

Scriveners are experts in documentation and legal procedures, well-equipped to compile and present your subsidy application to maximize your chances of approval. While there might be associated costs with employing scrivener services, these expenses are an investment in the accuracy and effectiveness of your application. They also assist you with Visa applications. It’s crucial to conduct thorough research to find a qualified scrivener who aligns with your specific needs and goals.

Where can I find a scrivener?

When embarking on the journey to secure a scrivener’s services, the question arises: where can you find a reliable professional? Scouting for a proficient scrivener involves a combination of research and networking. Legal and professional directories, business associations, and online platforms can provide leads to reputable scriveners with expertise in subsidy applications.

Networking events, business seminars, and industry-specific gatherings can also be fruitful avenues to connect with scriveners who understand the intricacies of subsidy applications. By tapping into these resources, you enhance your chances of finding a scrivener who not only possesses the necessary skills but also aligns with your business objectives and values. To learn more about what skills you need to do this, read our Guide to Networking in Japan.

What will a typical application process look like?

To apply for labor and employment subsidies in Japan, specifically those from the MHLW, various application procedures exist for the different subsidies. To apply for disaster support subsidies in Japan, specifically those from METI, various application procedures exist for the different subsidies. Generally, the following should be followed:

1. Research and update yourself Take note of the subsidies listed on the MHLW website  and the METI website to understand which ones are available and which ones are discontinued. There are changes every fiscal year so it is important to update yourself on new ones introduced and which ones have been stopped. Additionally, if you plan to apply for something, you must update yourself on requirements and procedures that may have changed for the new fiscal year. For any inquiries, make sure to contact the listed numbers and emails for each specific subsidy. 
2. Gather all requirements or hire a scrivener After having listed all the documents and proof you need to submit, start to gather the items for your application. You may also hire a scrivener to help you apply. Their role and the process of hiring a scrivener are discussed in a previous section. It may be necessary to fill out an application form that will be attached to the webpage that announces the subsidy. 
3. Submit documents Submitting documents can be done in several ways. MHLW and METI allow electronic applications through e-Gov. If you do not have an e-Gov account, registering can be done through native accounts, Gbiz ID, or an Open ID. First-time users can refer to this guide for help. Other applications in MHLW are made through Gbiz. If no electronic application is available, physical applications are printed and mailed to a service counter listed with the address, postal code, and telephone number.
4. Pay for the subsidy (Not applicable to all) Subsidies in Japan tend to be a long-term strategy and investment into the business, especially with the payment that some subsidies in Japan require up-front. Instructions vary per subsidy but in general, the business will be evaluated by the corresponding ministry as to whether or not they should have to pay. Instructions and a form are attached to webpages should you have to pay. 

For a flow of what happens before and after obtaining your subsidy, refer to this application flow created by jGrants, an official website of the Japanese government. 

Final Thoughts: Navigating Subsidies Successfully in Japan

In essence, Japanese government subsidies play a pivotal role in propelling any business to greater heights. There are different types of incentives and subsidies in Japan all aimed at fostering a favorable business environment. More importantly, it is absolutely vital for you to hire specialized professionals like scriveners to help you navigate the intricate application process of Japanese subsidies. Any hopeful entrepreneurs should utilize this capital as best as they can to push for bettering their business.

As you embark on your business journey in Japan, remember that subsidies in Japan are not mere financial aids; they represent strategic stepping stones towards achieving your growth ambitions. By using the various opportunities available, both local and foreign entrepreneurs can position themselves for success in this dynamic market. Embrace the support offered by the Japanese government, and take proactive steps to tap into these resources. Navigating subsidies in Japan successfully means always trying to prepare yourself for applications. Whether you’re aiming to expand your workforce, establish a new business site, or contribute to local revitalization, the paths for growth are wide and long. Seize this chance to accelerate your business in Japan, armed and supported with a subsidy.