Subsidies for Startups in Japan: 2026 Amounts and Deadlines

Subsidies for startups in Japan (補助金, hojokin) are government funds you do not repay. Most cover 1/2 to 2/3 of approved costs after you spend the money.

For fiscal 2026 (April 2026 to March 2027), the main startup subsidies are:

• Small Business Sustainability Subsidy, startup type: up to 2.5 million yen

• Tokyo Startup Subsidy: up to 4 million yen from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government

• New Business Entry and Monozukuri Subsidy: for equipment and new products

• Go-Tech and Japan SBIR: for R&D projects

Japan wants a bigger startup ecosystem. Its Startup Development Five-Year Plan targets 10 trillion yen of startup investment by fiscal 2027.

Foreign entrepreneurs can apply once their business in Japan is registered. This guide covers each program's amount, eligibility criteria and next deadline. It then walks you through the application process.

Startup Subsidies in Japan at a Glance (2026)

The table lists the main government subsidies and loan programs for startups. Status is as of October 30, 2026. Rules change each fiscal year, so confirm the current round on each official page.

Program	Who it is for	Amount and rate	Status	Next deadline
Small Business Sustainability Subsidy, startup type (小規模事業者持続化補助金 創業型)	Small businesses founded December 15, 2025 to December 15, 2026, with certified startup program support	Up to 2 million yen (2.5 million yen with invoice special), 2/3	Open November 5 to December 15, 2026	December 15, 2026
Tokyo Startup Subsidy (創業助成事業)	Planned founders or businesses under 5 years old in Tokyo	1 million to 4 million yen, 2/3	Fiscal 2026 rounds closed	Next round expected around April 2027
New Business Entry and Monozukuri Subsidy (新事業進出・ものづくり商業サービス補助金)	SMEs investing in new products, new markets or exports	Up to 7.5 million to 70 million yen by track and staff count, 1/2 to 2/3	Round 1 closed October 30, 2026	Next round to be announced
Digital and AI Adoption Subsidy (デジタル化・AI導入補助金)	SMEs buying registered software or AI tools	Up to 4.5 million yen (normal track), 1/2 to 4/5	Several rounds a year	Next round to be announced
Go-Tech R&D Program (成長型中小企業等研究開発支援事業)	SME consortiums with a university or public lab	Up to 97.5 million yen over 3 years (normal), 300 million yen (large R&D), 2/3	Fiscal 2026 call closed April 17, 2026	Fiscal 2027 call expected early 2027
Japan SBIR	SMEs doing R&D on social challenges	Phase 1 up to 20 million yen (100%), Phase 2 up to 100 million yen (2/3)	Annual calls	Check official page
J-Startup	High-growth startups with global goals	Non-cash: mentoring, exhibitions, investor access	By selection	Check official page
JFC startup loan (新規開業・スタートアップ支援資金), repayable	Businesses before launch or up to about 7 years old	Up to 72 million yen	Year-round	None

What Are Startup Subsidies in Japan?

Startup subsidies are a form of financial support that covers part of your early business costs. You do not repay them. In return, you spend the money on approved items and report on results.

Subsidies vs grants vs loans

Founders often mix up the types of subsidies and funding in Japan:

• Subsidies (補助金, hojokin): competitive. A review panel scores your business plan and funds the best ones.

• Grants (助成金, joseikin): usually condition-based. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you receive the money.

• Loans (融資, yushi): repayable, but on low-interest terms from public lenders.

Some local programs use the word joseikin but still run a competitive review. The Tokyo Startup Subsidy (創業助成事業) is one example.

Who provides startup subsidies?

Domestic startups, foreign-owned companies and foreign nationals running a registered business can all apply. The main national bodies are:

• Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI)

• SME Agency (中小企業庁, chusho kigyo cho)

• Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)

• New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO)

• Japan Finance Corporation (JFC), for loan programs

Prefectures and cities add their own programs. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government runs the largest local startup subsidies.

Government Support for Startups in Japan: 7 Types

Japan offers 7 types of public support for startups. Each one fits a different stage or need.

#	Category	What it Covers	Typical Programs
1	Government subsidies	Equipment, marketing, digitalization	Go-tech, NEP, DTSU (NEDO)
2	Government Loans	Debt financing at favorable rates	JFC New Business and Startup Support Fund, A-STEP
3	Equity Investment	Shares in exchange for capital	JBIC Equity Investment
4	Consultation, Mentorship and Facilities	Free Advice, incubators, seminars	NEDO Plus One, Startup Support Program (SME Support Japan), Yorozu Support Center (SME Support Japan)
5	Intellectual Property Support	IP strategy, consultations	INPIT IP Desk, Startup IP Support
6	Overseas Expansion	Market research, exhibitions	Global Acceleration Hub, JICA programs
7	Matching and Networking	Partnerships, exhibitions	J-GoodTech, accelerator programs and networks

1. Grants and Subsidies (補助金・助成金, hojokin/joseikin)

Ministries fund startups whose plans match a policy goal. They review each business plan and choose who receives assistance.

Payment comes in two forms:

• Advance or interim payment (概算払, gaisan barai): the agency pays part of the money during the project.

• Post-project reimbursement (精算払, seisan barai): you pay first. The agency reimburses you after a final inspection.

Most programs reimburse after the project, so plan your cash flow before you apply.

Examples:

• Go-Tech R&D Support Program (METI / SME Agency)

• NEP: Talent Discovery and Entrepreneur Development in Deep Tech (NEDO)

• DTSU: Deep Tech Startup Support Program (NEDO)

2. Government-Backed Loans (融資, yushi)

Public loan programs give you capital at low interest with flexible repayment. You must repay the money, but the lender takes no part in management.

Examples:

• JFC New Business and Startup Support Fund (新規開業・スタートアップ支援資金): up to 72 million yen, including 48 million yen of working capital. It serves businesses before launch or up to about 7 years old. (Japan Finance Corporation)

• A-STEP Implementation Support (Loan-Based) (JST)

3. Equity Investment (出資, shusshi)

Equity investors buy shares in exchange for capital. You do not repay them, but they gain ownership and a say in management.

Most equity comes from venture capitalists and corporations. Government-affiliated bodies invest only in specific cases.

Example: JBIC Equity Investment for Startups Expanding Overseas

4. Consultation, Mentorship and Facilities

Not all support is cash. Government support desks offer free consultation on grants, business plans and daily operations.

Mentorship can include:

• Startup seminars for entrepreneurs

• One-on-one advice from experienced founders

• Coaching bundled with a grant

• Accelerator programs that speed up applications

Incubation facilities offer free or low-cost office space for early-stage startups. For help in English, see our list of English-speaking startup support in Japan.

Consultation desks:

• Plus One Consultation Desk (NEDO)

• Startup Support Program (SME Support Japan)

• Yorozu Support Center (SME Support Japan)

Incubation facilities:

• Incubation Facilities (SME Support Japan)

• K-NIC (NEDO / Kawasaki City / Kawasaki Industrial Promotion Foundation)

5. Intellectual Property Support (知財支援, chizai shien)

IP support helps startups protect their technology and brand. INPIT (National Center for Industrial Property Information and Training) runs most programs.

INPIT offers free IP consultation and help with industry-academia partnerships. It suits deep-tech, hardware and R&D startups most.

Examples: IP Comprehensive Support Desk and Startup IP Support Services (INPIT). Before you file, read our guide to trademark registration in Japan.

6. Overseas Expansion Support (海外展開支援, kaigai tenkai shien)

These programs help startups grow both in Japan and abroad. They cover:

• Market research and demand analysis

• Local regulations and market information

• Introductions to overseas companies and investors

• Access to international accelerator programs

Examples:

• Global Acceleration Hub (JETRO)

• SME and SDGs Business Support (JICA)

7. Matching and Networking

Matching programs connect startups with corporations, researchers and commercial partners. Some grants also pay for trade show booths or partner introductions.

This support helps founders test their business model and build traction. For practical tips, read our guide to networking in Japan.

Example: J-GoodTech (SME Support Japan)

Major National Startup Subsidies for 2026

National programs from METI and its agencies fund R&D, global growth, mentoring and scale-up. Here are the main programs startups can apply for in 2026.

Small Business Sustainability Subsidy: Startup Type

The Small Business Sustainability Subsidy (小規模事業者持続化補助金, shokibo jigyosha jizokuka hojokin) has a startup type (創業型, sogyo-gata). It is the most accessible subsidy for new businesses.

• Amount: up to 2 million yen at a 2/3 rate. The invoice special adds 500,000 yen, for up to 2.5 million yen. To use it, register as a qualified invoice issuer before the project ends. If you miss this, you lose the whole subsidy.

• Covers: sales and marketing costs, such as equipment, shop improvements, trade shows and ads. Ads and website costs are capped at 300,000 yen each, and neither can be claimed alone.

• Who qualifies: small businesses founded between December 15, 2025 and December 15, 2026.

• Prerequisite: support from your municipality's certified startup program (特定創業支援等事業, tokutei sogyo shien to jigyo).

• Round 4: applications open November 5, 2026 and close December 15, 2026.

• Support plan: request Form 4 (様式4) from your Chamber of Commerce by December 4, 2026. The Chamber accepts no requests after that date.

Sole proprietors can apply too. See our guide to sole proprietorship in Japan. The invoice special ties to Japan's invoice system.

New Business Entry and Monozukuri Subsidy

In 2026, the government merged two well-known programs into one. The Monozukuri Subsidy (ものづくり補助金) and the New Business Entry Subsidy (新事業進出補助金) became the 新事業進出・ものづくり商業サービス補助金.

• Covers: equipment for new products, new markets or exports

• Amount: caps depend on track and staff count. The Innovative Products track allows 7.5 million to 25 million yen. The New Business Entry and Global tracks allow 25 million to 70 million yen. Wage increases raise each cap.

• Rate: 1/2 to 2/3. Round 1 closed October 30, 2026, with results around December 2026.

Digital and AI Adoption Subsidy

The Digital and AI Adoption Subsidy (デジタル化・AI導入補助金) replaced the IT Introduction Subsidy (IT導入補助金) in 2026. It helps SMEs buy registered software, SaaS and AI tools.

• Amount: up to 4.5 million yen in the normal track

• Rate: 1/2 to 4/5, depending on the track

• How to apply: through an approved IT vendor, with a gBizID Prime account

New to the topic? Start with our guide to digital transformation (DX) in Japan.

Go-Tech R&D Program

Go-Tech (成長型中小企業等研究開発支援事業) funds R&D projects that SMEs run with universities or public labs. You need a consortium of at least two parties.

• Normal track: up to 45 million yen a year, or 97.5 million yen over 3 years

• Large R&D track: up to 100 million yen a year, or 300 million yen over 3 years

• Rate: 2/3 for SMEs

• Timing: the fiscal 2026 call ran February 16 to April 17, 2026

NEDO, JST and Japan SBIR R&D Grants

NEDO and JST fund tech startups in phases: feasibility, development, then demonstration. These grants suit startups building prototypes or advanced technology.

• Japan SBIR (NEDO one-stop type): Phase 1 up to 20 million yen (100%), Phase 2 up to 100 million yen (2/3). Other ministries' SBIR calls set their own limits.

• NEDO Deep-Tech Startup Support (DTSU): up to 3 billion yen across three phases, over up to 6 years. The final mass-production phase alone allows up to 2.5 billion yen. VC or CVC investment is required.

J-Startup Program (METI)

J-Startup is METI's flagship program for high-growth startups with global goals. METI runs it with JETRO and NEDO.

Selected companies get mentoring, overseas exhibition support, regulatory help and access to investors. It has no grant of its own. Instead, selected companies get NEDO R&D funding support and priority in some METI screenings.

Sector-Specific National Programs

National programs also target strategic sectors, such as fintech, biotech, semiconductors and green technology. The government plans large public investment in AI and semiconductors through 2030.

Startups in these sectors often find larger grants and more support. Building a SaaS product? Read our guide to bringing your SaaS business to Japan.

Local Government Subsidies for Startups

Prefectures and cities run their own startup subsidies. They often mean less competition and faster decisions, but smaller amounts.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Subsidies

The Tokyo Startup Subsidy (創業助成事業, sogyo josei jigyo) is the best-known local program. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government runs it with the Tokyo Metropolitan Small and Medium Enterprise Support Center.

• Amount: 1 million to 4 million yen, at a 2/3 rate

• Covers: rent, advertising, equipment, staff costs and expert fees

• Who qualifies: people planning a business in Tokyo, or companies and sole proprietors under 5 years old. You must also have under 5 years of total experience running a business, including abroad.

• Prerequisite: first use a designated support program, such as TOKYO Startup Station's plan consulting. Allow about 3 months.

• Office: you need a real business base in Tokyo. A virtual office alone does not qualify, and its fees are not covered.

• Competition: in fiscal 2025, 201 of 1,225 applicants won, about 16.4%

• Rounds: fiscal 2026 rounds ran April 7 to 16 and September 29 to October 8, 2026. The next round usually opens around April.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government also runs larger programs. SusHi Tech Global Grants offer up to 200 million yen for growth-stage startups. Deep Tech Tokyo Launchpad supports foreign deep-tech companies setting up in Tokyo.

Osaka and Kansai

Osaka and the wider Kansai region run their own schemes, often for manufacturing and deep tech. Start with the Osaka Business Development Agency for current rounds.

Fukuoka, Yokohama and Other Cities

Regional cities compete hard for startups. Many offer rent subsidies, hiring support and help for foreign founders.

• Fukuoka: runs a startup visa framework and free English consultation. It has also paid up to 50% of office and home rent for foreign startups, and it cuts 20% of taxable income for startups in their first 5 years. Check the current rent subsidy round before you plan around it.

• Yokohama: offers up to 2 million yen in fiscal 2026 for companies leasing their first site in the city. First-time foreign-affiliated companies need at least 1 employee and 50 m², or 10 m² in a serviced office. Submit your plan before you sign a lease.

Amounts tend to be smaller than national programs. In return, the process is usually faster and more flexible.

National vs Local Subsidies: Which Fits Your Startup?

National and local programs suit different needs. Compare both before you apply.

	National programs	Local programs
Amount of funding	Larger, from millions to billions of yen	Smaller, often under 5 million yen
Competition	High	Lower
Eligibility criteria	Stricter	More flexible
Speed	Slower, often 3 to 5 months to a decision	Often faster
Best for	R&D, equipment, scaling	Early costs: rent, ads, first hires

Your best strategy is to check both. Apply where your business plan matches the program goal most closely.

How to Choose the Right Subsidy for Your Startup

The right subsidy depends on your stage, sector and location. Use the table to narrow your list, then check each program's eligibility criteria.

Startup stage	Typical amount	Main focus	Programs to check
Pre-seed or formation	0.5 million to 4 million yen	Setup costs: website, software, marketing, small equipment	Sustainability Subsidy startup type, Tokyo Startup Subsidy
Early growth	3 million to 70 million yen	R&D, hiring, equipment, exports	New Business Entry and Monozukuri Subsidy, Go-Tech, Japan SBIR, J-Startup
Scaling	30 million yen and up	Large R&D, demonstration, sector programs	NEDO DTSU, Go-Tech large R&D track, METI sector programs
Foreign founders	Varies	Registration, visa, local operations	Tokyo, Fukuoka and Yokohama programs, JETRO support

Pre-seed and formation stage

Look for programs that cover setup costs, such as a website, software and marketing. Amounts are small, around 2 million to 4 million yen, but they stretch early cash.

Early-growth stage

Now you can apply for grants that cover R&D, hiring and export promotion. Look for programs that pair funding with mentoring.

Scaling stage

Larger national programs open up at this stage. Expect strict eligibility criteria, such as revenue, export record and job creation.

Match the program's goal

Every subsidy has a policy goal, such as innovation, exports, regional growth or jobs. Your business plan must show how you meet that goal.

Stacking more than one subsidy

You can combine national and local programs, or pair cash with non-cash support. Most programs ban funding the same expense twice. In addition, some cities offer tax incentives to support companies in strategic sectors.

A common mix looks like this:

• A JFC loan for startup capital

• The Sustainability Subsidy for marketing

• An employment grant once you hire

Eligibility Criteria for Startup Subsidies in Japan

Each program sets its own eligibility criteria. Most check the same basics.

• Age of the business: often under 1, 3 or 5 years old, depending on the program

• Registration: a registered business in Japan, as a company or a sole proprietor

• Size: an SME or small business, defined by staff count or capital

• Policy fit: the nature of your business must support innovation, exports, regional growth or jobs

• Prerequisites: some programs require a certificate or a support plan before you apply

Two prerequisites catch many founders out. The Sustainability Subsidy needs a 特定創業支援等事業 certificate from your city. Most national programs also need a gBizID Prime account for online filing on jGrants.

Eligibility Requirements for Foreign Entrepreneurs

Foreign entrepreneurs and foreign-owned startups can apply for most subsidies in Japan. Nationality rarely matters. What matters is registration, residence status and language.

1. Company registration

Most subsidies require a registered business in Japan. Foreign founders usually choose one of two company types:

• Kabushiki Kaisha (KK): a joint stock company, similar to a corporation

• Godo Kaisha (GK): a limited liability company, similar to an LLC

Not sure which fits? Compare them in our guide to GK vs KK.

You register with the Legal Affairs Bureau and list a Japanese business address. MailMate can provide a virtual office address and a Japanese phone number for company registration. Some programs need more. The Tokyo Startup Subsidy and the Business Manager visa both expect a real office.

Company registration takes 2 to 4 weeks. Government fees run about 170,000 to 250,000 yen for a KK, or 60,000 to 100,000 yen for a GK. Our guide to company incorporation in Japan covers every step.

2. Capital and the Business Manager visa

Subsidies rarely set a capital minimum of their own. The bigger hurdle for foreign founders is the Business Manager visa (経営・管理, keiei kanri).

Since October 16, 2025, the Business Manager visa requires:

• At least 30 million yen in capital

• At least one full-time employee in Japan

• Japanese at CEFR B2 level, for you or an employee

• A professionally reviewed business plan

• At least 3 years of management experience, or a relevant master's degree

• An employee who is Japanese, a permanent resident or holds a similar status (not a work visa)

Immigration now expects a physical office for this visa. A virtual office works for company registration, but it may not be enough for the visa. For a full cost picture, see the cost of starting a business in Japan.

3. Residence status

You need a residence status that allows business activities in Japan. These statuses work:

• Business Manager visa

• Permanent resident, spouse of a Japanese national or long-term resident

• The Japan startup visa, which lets you live in Japan for up to two years while you prepare

Standard work visas may not cover running your own business. Check before you apply.

4. Ownership rules

Most subsidies accept foreign ownership, as long as the company is registered in Japan. Check each program's eligibility requirements for any ownership limits.

Some programs target foreign-affiliated companies directly. JETRO's subsidy for direct investment in Japan (対内直接投資促進事業) funds feasibility and pilot projects. Foreign investors must hold over 1/3 of the Japanese company's shares, and the largest foreign investor at least 10%. The 2026 call opened March 31, 2026.

5. Local staff and office

Some subsidies require local staff or an operating office in Japan. Programs tied to jobs or regional growth favor companies that hire locally.

Expect to show payroll records, employment contracts or an office lease. Our guide to payroll in Japan explains the basics.

6. Documents in Japanese

Almost every program requires documents in Japanese. Even where English is accepted, reviewers prefer Japanese.

Typical documents include:

• A business plan (事業計画書, jigyo keikakusho) matched to the program goal

• Financial forecasts and accounting statements

• A cost breakdown with vendor quotes

• Proof of company registration and capital

• A support plan or certificate, if the program requires one

Need help? See our list of Japanese document translation services.

Best practices for foreign founders

Good preparation keeps you from being disqualified. Follow these steps:

• Work with a certified SME consultant (中小企業診断士, chusho kigyo shindanshi) or a bilingual accounting firm.

• Secure your visa or startup visa before you apply.

• Write your business plan in Japanese and show how it meets the program goal.

• Consider local programs, which can be more flexible for foreign founders.

• Use free English support desks, such as the Tokyo One-Stop Business Establishment Center.

How to Apply for Startup Subsidies in Japan: 7 Steps

The application process follows a set path, especially for reimbursement-based subsidies. Plan for 6 to 12 months from first research to payment.

Step 1: Choose the right program

Compare national, local and sector programs against your stage and goals. Check each program's amount, eligibility criteria and deadline on its official page.

Good places to search include METI, the SME Agency's Mirasapo Plus portal and your prefecture's website.

Step 2: Clear the prerequisites early

Most programs need groundwork before you can apply. Start these first:

• gBizID Prime account: needed to file on jGrants, the national online system. Allow a few weeks.

• Startup program certificate: the Sustainability Subsidy startup type needs a 特定創業支援等事業 certificate from your city.

• Support plan: your Chamber of Commerce (商工会議所, shoko kaigisho) issues it for the Sustainability Subsidy.

• Designated program: Tokyo requires a course such as TOKYO Startup Station's plan consulting. Allow about 3 months.

Step 3: Prepare registration and visa documents

Register your business as a KK, GK or sole proprietor with a Japanese address. Foreign founders also need a residence status that allows business activities.

Gather your registration certificate, shareholder details, bank account proof and office lease, if you have one.

Step 4: Write your business plan

Your business plan (事業計画書) decides most outcomes. Reviewers look for four things:

• Specifics: what you sell, to whom and how you earn money

• Feasibility: evidence that the plan can work

• Need: why the project needs this subsidy

• Impact: measurable targets, such as sales growth or new jobs, with a timeline

Step 5: Build a budget with quotes

List every cost you want the subsidy to cover, such as equipment, R&D, marketing or staff. Attach vendor quotes for each item.

Mark which costs the program allows. Make sure no cost appears in two subsidy applications.

Step 6: Submit and respond

Submit on jGrants or through the program's own portal before the deadline. Double-check that every form and attachment is included.

The agency may ask for more documents or invite you to an interview. Most interviews are in Japanese, so prepare your key points in advance.

Step 7: Get approved, spend, report and get paid

Expect 3 to 5 months from deadline to decision for the main programs. Sustainability Subsidy round 4 closes December 15, 2026, with results around March 2027.

After approval, you spend the money on the approved items. You then submit a report and receipts, and the agency inspects them.

Payment usually comes after the inspection. Some programs, such as the Tokyo Startup Subsidy, allow an interim payment after 6 months.

Keep every record. Some programs, such as Go-Tech, require yearly business reports for 5 years. Failing to report can trigger repayment.

How to Stay Up to Date on Startup Subsidies in Japan

Programs change every fiscal year, which starts in April. New rounds often open between December and spring.

Track new rounds in these places:

• Official portals: METI, the SME Agency's Mirasapo Plus, J-Net21 and jGrants

• Local sites: your prefecture, your city and TOKYO Startup Station

• Support desks: Yorozu Support Centers and your local Chamber of Commerce

• Events: webinars from startup support groups, where new calls are often announced first

• Policy shifts: AI, semiconductors and green transformation signal where funding will rise

Browse our related articles, starting with how the Japanese fiscal year shapes deadlines and budgets.

Subsidies for startups in Japan: Frequently asked questions

Can foreigners get startup subsidies in Japan?

Yes. Most subsidies in Japan do not restrict applicants by nationality. Foreign nationals can apply once their business in Japan is registered as a company or sole proprietorship. You also need a residence status that allows business activities, such as the Business Manager visa. The main barrier is language, since most applications are in Japanese.

Are startup subsidies in Japan paid upfront?

Usually not. Most subsidies reimburse you after the project ends (精算払, seisan barai). You pay the costs first, submit a report and pass an inspection. The Tokyo Startup Subsidy allows an interim payment after 6 months. Many founders cover the gap with a Japan Finance Corporation loan.

What is the easiest startup subsidy to get in Japan?

The Small Business Sustainability Subsidy startup type is the most accessible for new businesses. It offers up to 2 million yen at a 2/3 rate, or 2.5 million yen with the invoice special. About 41% of startup type applicants won in its latest published round. You need a Chamber of Commerce support plan and a certificate from your city's startup program.

How much is the Tokyo Startup Subsidy?

The Tokyo Startup Subsidy covers 2/3 of eligible costs, from 1 million to 4 million yen. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government offers it to people planning a business in Tokyo and to businesses under 5 years old. In fiscal 2025, about 16.4% of applicants won. You must complete a designated support program first and have a real office in Tokyo. Founders with 5 or more years of business-owner experience, including abroad, cannot apply.

Can sole proprietors apply for startup subsidies?

Yes. The Sustainability Subsidy and the Tokyo Startup Subsidy both accept sole proprietors (個人事業主, kojin jigyo nushi). Registering as a sole proprietor is free. Many founders apply for subsidies before they incorporate. See our guide to sole proprietorship in Japan.

Do I need to apply in Japanese?

Yes, for almost every program. You file national subsidies on jGrants with a gBizID Prime account, and forms and any interviews are in Japanese. The Tokyo Startup Subsidy interview is in Japanese only. Free English support desks, such as the Tokyo One-Stop Business Establishment Center, can guide you.

Are startup subsidies taxable in Japan?

Yes. Subsidies count as taxable income. Companies pay corporate tax on them, and sole proprietors report them for income tax. Because subsidies reimburse deductible costs, the net tax effect is often small. Read what startups should know about Japan tax before you file.

When is the next startup subsidy deadline in Japan?

The Sustainability Subsidy startup type, round 4, opens November 5, 2026 and closes December 15, 2026. Request your Chamber of Commerce support plan (Form 4) by December 4. The Tokyo Startup Subsidy's fiscal 2026 rounds have closed. Check the at-a-glance table above for every program's status.

Final Thoughts

Subsidies for startups in Japan can cover a large share of your early costs. The best programs reward founders who plan early and apply with a clear business plan.

To give yourself the best chance:

• Start with the programs that match your stage, such as the Sustainability Subsidy or the Tokyo Startup Subsidy.

• Clear prerequisites first, such as gBizID Prime and any certificate or support plan.

• Write your plan in Japanese and tie it to the program's policy goal.

• Combine subsidies with JFC loan programs and free consultation services.

Ready to set up? Our guide to company incorporation in Japan walks you through company registration step by step.

Sources

• Small Business Sustainability Subsidy (SME Agency)

• Tokyo Startup Subsidy (TOKYO Startup Station)

• Tokyo Metropolitan Government startup support (English)

• SusHi Tech Global Grants (Tokyo Metropolitan Government)

• Deep Tech Tokyo Launchpad (Invest Tokyo)

• New Business Entry and Monozukuri Subsidy (SME Support Japan)

• Digital and AI Adoption Subsidy 2026 overview (SME Agency, PDF)

• Go-Tech fiscal 2026 call notice (SME Agency)

• Japan SBIR Promotion Program (NEDO)

• Deep-Tech Startup Support phase limits (METI, PDF)

• New Business and Startup Support Fund (Japan Finance Corporation)

• Subsidy for direct investment in Japan, 2026 call (JETRO)

• Startup visa (Immigration Services Agency of Japan)

• Location subsidy, fiscal 2026 (City of Yokohama, PDF)

• Startup tax cut (Fukuoka City)

• Subsidy for foreign-affiliated companies (Osaka Prefecture)