Japan hubs

Shun

Blockchain Developer

JapanJapanese (日本語)¥ JPY

Shun is a remote-working blockchain developer living in Tokyo, navigating the intersection of Japan's traditional bureaucracy and the fast-paced Web3 ecosystem. This hub tracks everything from his mandatory social security obligations to the tax incentives he needs to manage his crypto-asset income.

Keeping my crypto earnings legal

Japan has strict tax laws regarding crypto-assets that every developer must navigate to avoid audits.

National Tax Agency Crypto-Asset Taxation

暗号資産に関する税務上の取扱い

national · National Tax Agency

Who qualifies
Anyone earning income from crypto-asset transactions.
What you get
Legal compliance for miscellaneous income tax brackets up to 45% plus 10% residence tax.
What it actually costs you
Detailed transaction logs for every trade; annual tax filing (Kakutei Shinkoku).
Common gotcha
Crypto gains are taxed as 'miscellaneous income,' not capital gains, meaning you cannot offset losses against other income.

e-Tax Filing System

国税電子申告・納税システム

national · National Tax Agency

Who qualifies
All taxpayers in Japan.
What you get
Online submission of income tax returns without visiting a tax office.
What it actually costs you
Requires My Number Card and an IC card reader or smartphone NFC.
Common gotcha
The UI is notoriously difficult and requires specific browser plugins.

FSA Crypto Exchange Registration List

暗号資産交換業者登録一覧

national · Financial Services Agency

Who qualifies
Developers choosing a compliant exchange for cashing out.
What you get
Verification that an exchange is legally licensed to operate in Japan.
What it actually costs you
Zero cost; just due diligence.
Common gotcha
Using non-registered foreign exchanges can lead to complications with bank transfers.

NISA (Nippon Individual Savings Account)

少額投資非課税制度

national · Financial Services Agency

Who qualifies
Residents over 18.
What you get
Tax-free capital gains and dividends on traditional stock investments.
What it actually costs you
Opening an account at a brokerage; annual investment limit of 3.6 million JPY.
Common gotcha
Does not apply to crypto-assets, only traditional securities.

iDeCo (Individual Defined Contribution Pension)

個人型確定拠出年金

national · Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare

Who qualifies
Working residents aged 20-65.
What you get
Tax deduction on contributions and tax-deferred growth.
What it actually costs you
Monthly management fees; funds are locked until age 60.
Common gotcha
You cannot withdraw funds early even in an emergency.

Furusato Nozei (Hometown Tax)

ふるさと納税

national · Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications

Who qualifies
All taxpayers.
What you get
Donating to municipalities in exchange for local gifts and income tax reduction.
What it actually costs you
Initial payment; effectively a 2,000 JPY processing fee.
Common gotcha
You must calculate your 'deduction limit' based on your salary to avoid losing money.

Staying healthy and insured

Mandatory health insurance is the backbone of Japanese life, even for freelancers.

National Health Insurance (Kokumin Kenko Hoken)

国民健康保険

national · Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare

Who qualifies
Self-employed or unemployed residents.
What you get
70% coverage for medical expenses.
What it actually costs you
Monthly premiums based on previous year's income.
Common gotcha
Premiums are calculated based on the previous year's income, so a high-earning year can cause a massive premium spike the following year.

National Pension (Kokumin Nenkin)

国民年金

national · Japan Pension Service

Who qualifies
All residents aged 20-60.
What you get
Basic pension payout at age 65.
What it actually costs you
Fixed monthly premium (approx 17,000 JPY).
Common gotcha
If you are a freelancer, you must enroll yourself; it is not automatic like corporate employees.

My Number Card

マイナンバーカード

national · Digital Agency

Who qualifies
All residents.
What you get
Digital ID for government portals and tax filing.
What it actually costs you
Application process via smartphone; takes 1-2 months to arrive.
Common gotcha
The digital certificate on the chip expires every 5 years.

High-Cost Medical Expense Benefit

高額療養費制度

national · Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare

Who qualifies
Anyone with high medical bills.
What you get
Caps the amount you pay out-of-pocket per month based on income.
What it actually costs you
Requires application to your local municipality or insurer.
Common gotcha
You usually have to pay the full amount first and get reimbursed later unless you get a 'Certificate of Maximum Amount' in advance.

Special Enrollment for Unemployment Insurance

雇用保険の特別加入

national · Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare

Who qualifies
Freelancers in specific industries.
What you get
Protections similar to employees if work dries up.
What it actually costs you
Monthly insurance premiums.
Common gotcha
Not all freelancers qualify; check if your specific contract type is eligible.

Tokutei Kenshin (Specific Health Checkup)

特定健康診査

national · Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare

Who qualifies
Aged 40-74.
What you get
Free or low-cost annual health screening focused on metabolic syndrome.
What it actually costs you
Usually free if you are enrolled in National Health Insurance.
Common gotcha
You must wait for the voucher to arrive in the mail; don't lose it.

Growing my career

Japan provides specific grants and training for IT professionals to stay competitive.

IT Passport Examination Subsidy

ITパスポート試験

national · IPA (Information-technology Promotion Agency)

Who qualifies
IT professionals seeking certification.
What you get
Official government-recognized IT certification.
What it actually costs you
Exam fee (approx 7,500 JPY).
Common gotcha
This is a basic certification; senior developers might find it too simple.

Reskilling Support Program

リスキリングを通じたキャリアアップ支援事業

national · METI (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry)

Who qualifies
Workers looking to upgrade skills in digital/AI fields.
What you get
Subsidies for tuition at approved coding bootcamps or courses.
What it actually costs you
Application process; requires proof of course completion.
Common gotcha
Only specific government-approved courses qualify.

J-Startup Program

J-Startup

national · METI / JETRO

Who qualifies
High-growth potential startups.
What you get
Mentorship, networking, and support for global expansion.
What it actually costs you
Competitive application process.
Common gotcha
Extremely selective; focuses on companies with high scalability.

Patent Fee Reduction for SMEs

特許料等の減免制度

national · Japan Patent Office

Who qualifies
Individual developers or small startups.
What you get
Up to 1/3 or 1/2 reduction in patent filing fees.
What it actually costs you
Requires proof of income or business size.
Common gotcha
The paperwork is complex; often requires a patent attorney.

Small Business Mutual Relief (Kyosai)

小規模企業共済

national · SME Support Japan

Who qualifies
Freelancers and sole proprietors.
What you get
Retirement fund that acts as a tax-deductible savings account.
What it actually costs you
Monthly contributions.
Common gotcha
Withdrawal before retirement age might result in a loss of principal.

Digital Agency Tech Consultation

デジタル庁相談窓口

national · Digital Agency

Who qualifies
Developers working on public sector-related tech.
What you get
Guidance on government digital standards.
What it actually costs you
Zero cost; appointment required.
Common gotcha
Response times can be slow due to high volume.

Living in Japan

Navigating the basics of city life, from public transport to housing.

JR Regional Passes

JR各社周遊パス

national · JR Group

Who qualifies
All residents.
What you get
Discounted travel on specific regional rail lines.
What it actually costs you
Purchase price; must be bought in advance.
Common gotcha
The nationwide JR Pass is now very expensive; regional passes are often better value.

Housing Loan Tax Deduction

住宅ローン控除

national · National Tax Agency

Who qualifies
Homeowners with a mortgage.
What you get
Annual tax credit based on loan balance.
What it actually costs you
Initial filing at tax office.
Common gotcha
Requires a loan term of at least 10 years.

Child Allowance (Jido Teate)

児童手当

national · Cabinet Office

Who qualifies
Parents with children under junior high school age.
What you get
Monthly cash payment per child.
What it actually costs you
Registration at your local ward office.
Common gotcha
You must re-register every year in June (Genkyo Todoke).

Passport Renewal Service

パスポート更新

national · Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Who qualifies
Citizens.
What you get
Travel document renewal.
What it actually costs you
Application fee (approx 11,000-16,000 JPY).
Common gotcha
Photos must meet strict government size and quality standards.

Hazard Map Portal

ハザードマップポータルサイト

national · MLIT (Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism)

Who qualifies
All residents.
What you get
Risk assessment for floods, landslides, and tsunamis in your area.
What it actually costs you
Zero cost.
Common gotcha
People often ignore these until a disaster happens.

Cashless Payment Point Promotion

マイナポイント

national · Digital Agency

Who qualifies
My Number Card holders.
What you get
Points for linking your ID to cashless payment apps.
What it actually costs you
Time to register.
Common gotcha
The campaign periods are limited; check current status.

State-level schemes

47states & territories — open one to see what it offers.

Hokkaido北海道

Hokkaido offers unique tax incentives and incubation support for tech startups looking to leverage the region's cold climate for sustainable data center operations.

Scaling my dev shop in Sapporo

Hokkaido Startup Incubation Grant

北海道スタートアップ創出支援事業

state · Hokkaido Government Economic Affairs Bureau

Who qualifies
Tech startups registered in Hokkaido with less than 3 years of operation.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for R&D and office infrastructure costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, 1-month review, and proof of local office lease.
Common gotcha
Requires a local mentor or partnership with a Hokkaido-based university.

Sapporo IT Business Tax Incentive

札幌市IT企業立地促進助成金

municipal · Sapporo City Industrial Promotion Department

Who qualifies
IT companies relocating or expanding their dev team in Sapporo city limits.
What you get
Reduction in local corporate tax and subsidies for employee training.
What it actually costs you
Must hire at least 3 local residents as full-time developers.
Common gotcha
The tax break is retrospective; you pay first, then get the rebate after filing.

Hokkaido DX Promotion Fund

北海道DX推進支援基金

state · Hokkaido Digital Strategy Division

Who qualifies
Small-to-medium tech firms building solutions for local agriculture or tourism.
What you get
Low-interest loans and matching grants for pilot projects.
What it actually costs you
Quarterly progress reports and a final project impact assessment.
Common gotcha
Must demonstrate how the blockchain/tech solution benefits a specific Hokkaido industry.

Sapporo Remote Work Hub Voucher

札幌市コワーキングスペース利用支援

municipal · Sapporo City ICT Promotion Office

Who qualifies
Freelance developers and solo-founders living in Sapporo.
What you get
50% discount on monthly desk fees at participating city-certified hubs.
What it actually costs you
Application via city portal, valid for 6 months at a time.
Common gotcha
Only applies to hubs that are registered in the city's 'Smart City' network.

Living and working in the cold

Hokkaido Energy-Efficient Housing Grant

北海道住宅省エネ改修補助金

state · Hokkaido Housing and Urban Development Bureau

Who qualifies
Residents upgrading older homes for better insulation.
What you get
Up to 500,000 JPY for double-glazing or high-spec insulation.
What it actually costs you
Contractor quotes and energy audit report.
Common gotcha
Must be done before the winter season starts; applications close in August.

Sapporo Winter Commuter Benefit

札幌市冬期通勤手当

municipal · Sapporo City Transportation Bureau

Who qualifies
Self-employed individuals and small business owners.
What you get
Tax-deductible allowance for winter-specific commuting costs (snow tires, bus passes).
What it actually costs you
Receipts for all winter-related vehicle or transit expenses.
Common gotcha
Does not cover standard fuel, only winter-specific gear or public transit.
Aomori青森県

Aomori offers unique incentives for tech talent to relocate from Tokyo to leverage its renewable energy surplus and lower cost of living for remote-first developers.

Moving my dev setup to the North

Aomori Prefecture Remote Work Relocation Grant

青森県テレワーク移住支援金

state · Aomori Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Individuals moving from Tokyo 23-wards to Aomori to continue remote work for at least 5 years.
What you get
Up to 1,000,000 JPY in relocation support.
What it actually costs you
Proof of previous residence in Tokyo and a signed commitment to reside in Aomori for 5+ years.
Common gotcha
You must apply within 3 months of moving to the prefecture.

Aomori Startup Incubation Program

青森県スタートアップ支援事業

state · Aomori Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Early-stage tech startups or sole proprietors focusing on digital transformation (DX).
What you get
Subsidies for office rent and high-speed internet infrastructure costs.
What it actually costs you
Business plan submission and quarterly progress reports.
Common gotcha
Requires a local business registration address in Aomori.

Aomori Digital Nomad Community Hub

state · Aomori Tourism and Exchange Division

Who qualifies
Freelance developers using Aomori as a base for short-to-medium term stays.
What you get
Access to subsidized co-working spaces and local networking events.
What it actually costs you
Registration with the local community portal.
Common gotcha
Limited to specific partner co-working spaces in Aomori City and Hirosaki.

Aomori Renewable Energy Tech Rebate

青森県再生可能エネルギー導入促進補助金

state · Aomori Environment Bureau

Who qualifies
Residents installing energy-efficient home office equipment.
What you get
Rebate covering 30% of costs for energy-efficient hardware.
What it actually costs you
Receipts and energy efficiency certification documents.
Common gotcha
Must be purchased through local Aomori-based vendors.

Living well in Aomori

Aomori City Snow Removal Support

青森市除雪支援制度

municipal · Aomori City Hall

Who qualifies
Single-person households or elderly residents needing help with heavy snow clearing.
What you get
Partial coverage of professional snow removal services.
What it actually costs you
Application before the winter season begins.
Common gotcha
Slots are limited and assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.

Aomori Prefecture Child Medical Expense Subsidy

青森県乳幼児等医療費助成制度

state · Aomori Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Parents with children up to junior high school age.
What you get
Full or partial reimbursement of medical expenses.
What it actually costs you
Registration at the city office to receive the benefit card.
Common gotcha
Does not cover non-medical costs like hospital meals.

Aomori Bus/Rail Commuter Discount

state · Aomori Transport Bureau

Who qualifies
Residents commuting to work or school within the prefecture.
What you get
Up to 20% discount on monthly commuter passes.
What it actually costs you
Proof of employment or school enrollment.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific regional lines.

Aomori Housing Renovation Grant

青森県住宅リフォーム支援事業

state · Aomori Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Homeowners performing energy-efficient or seismic retrofitting.
What you get
Grant of up to 500,000 JPY for renovation work.
What it actually costs you
Contractor estimates and inspection before work starts.
Common gotcha
Work must be performed by a registered Aomori contractor.
Iwate岩手県

Iwate offers unique incentives for tech talent looking to balance remote work with a lower cost of living and specific regional startup support.

Building my startup in Iwate

Iwate Prefecture Startup Support Subsidy

岩手県スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Iwate Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Startups registered in Iwate focusing on IT or digital innovation.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY for business development and equipment costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, tax certificates, and 3-6 months review time.
Common gotcha
Must maintain office presence in Iwate for at least 3 years.

Morioka City IT Business Promotion Grant

盛岡市ITビジネス促進助成金

municipal · Morioka City Hall

Who qualifies
IT companies relocating to or expanding in Morioka city limits.
What you get
Subsidies for office rent and high-speed internet infrastructure setup.
What it actually costs you
Proof of lease and local hiring commitment.
Common gotcha
Requires hiring at least one local resident.

Iwate DX Promotion Fund

岩手県DX推進基金

state · Iwate Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Developers creating blockchain or AI solutions for local industries.
What you get
Matching grants for R&D projects.
What it actually costs you
Quarterly progress reports and financial audits.
Common gotcha
Must partner with a local traditional business (e.g., agriculture or forestry).

Iwate Remote Work Hub Voucher

岩手県テレワーク拠点利用補助

state · Iwate Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Freelance developers or remote workers living in Iwate.
What you get
50% discount on monthly fees at certified coworking spaces.
What it actually costs you
Registration with the prefecture's remote work portal.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific partner spaces listed on the portal.

Living the Iwate life

Iwate Migration Support Payment

岩手県移住支援金

state · Iwate Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Individuals moving from Tokyo 23-wards to Iwate for remote or local tech jobs.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY for single applicants.
What it actually costs you
Proof of previous residence and current employment contract.
Common gotcha
Must apply within 3 months of moving.

Iwate Child-Rearing Special Allowance

岩手県子育て世帯特別手当

state · Iwate Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Families with children under 18 residing in the prefecture.
What you get
Monthly cash top-up on national child benefits.
What it actually costs you
Annual income declaration.
Common gotcha
Income threshold applies based on household size.

Iwate Prefectural Housing Loan Interest Subsidy

岩手県住宅ローン利子補給

state · Iwate Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
First-time homeowners building or buying in designated rural areas of Iwate.
What you get
Reduction in interest rates for local bank loans.
What it actually costs you
Certificate of residence and building permit.
Common gotcha
Property must meet energy efficiency standards.

Morioka City Public Transit Discount

盛岡市公共交通割引パス

municipal · Morioka City Transport Bureau

Who qualifies
Residents aged 18-35 working in tech or creative sectors.
What you get
30% off monthly bus passes.
What it actually costs you
Application at city hall with employment proof.
Common gotcha
Must be renewed every 6 months.
Miyagi宮城県

Miyagi offers a unique blend of tech-forward incentives in Sendai and regional business support, making it an underrated hub for developers building decentralized infrastructure.

Scaling my tech startup in Sendai

Sendai City Startup Support Subsidy

仙台市スタートアップ支援補助金

municipal · Sendai City Economic Affairs Bureau

Who qualifies
Startups registered in Sendai focusing on IT, AI, or blockchain innovation.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY for office equipment and cloud infrastructure costs.
Common gotcha
You must prove that your blockchain project has a tangible benefit to the local Sendai economy.

Miyagi Prefecture DX Promotion Grant

宮城県DX推進助成金

state · Miyagi Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Small to medium enterprises implementing digital transformation tools.
What you get
50% reimbursement on software development costs up to 500,000 JPY.
What it actually costs you
Requires a formal DX roadmap and financial statements; 1 month processing.
Common gotcha
The grant is often exhausted by mid-year; apply as soon as the fiscal year opens in April.

Sendai For Startups Community Access

仙台フォー・スタートアップス

municipal · Sendai City

Who qualifies
Tech entrepreneurs and developers residing in Sendai.
What you get
Access to networking events, mentorship from local VCs, and co-working space discounts.
What it actually costs you
Free registration; requires attending an introductory session.
Common gotcha
Most events are in Japanese, so bring a translator if your business Japanese is limited.

Miyagi Tech Talent Matching Program

宮城県IT人材マッチング

state · Miyagi Labor Bureau

Who qualifies
Developers looking for local contract work or collaborative projects.
What you get
Direct introductions to local SMEs looking for blockchain/IT consultants.
What it actually costs you
Resume submission and an interview with a career advisor.
Common gotcha
The focus is on traditional industry digitization, so frame your blockchain skills as 'data security' or 'transparency'.

Living well while I build

Miyagi Remote Work Relocation Subsidy

宮城県移住支援金

state · Miyagi Prefecture

Who qualifies
Individuals moving from the Tokyo metropolitan area to Miyagi for remote work.
What you get
Up to 1,000,000 JPY for relocation expenses.
What it actually costs you
Proof of previous employment in Tokyo and current residency in Miyagi.
Common gotcha
You must stay in Miyagi for at least 5 years or risk having to repay the grant.

Sendai City Childcare Support Benefit

仙台市子育て支援手当

municipal · Sendai City

Who qualifies
Parents living in Sendai with children under 15.
What you get
Monthly allowance based on income level.
What it actually costs you
Annual income reporting (Gen-sen choshu-hyo).
Common gotcha
You must re-apply every year in June; missing the deadline results in a payment gap.

Miyagi Prefectural Resident Tax Deduction

宮城県個人住民税控除

state · Miyagi Tax Office

Who qualifies
Residents of Miyagi Prefecture.
What you get
Reductions on local resident tax for specific charitable donations (Furusato Nozei).
What it actually costs you
Filing a tax return or using the One-Stop Exception system.
Common gotcha
Don't confuse this with national income tax; this is specific to your prefectural and municipal tax bills.

Sendai City Transport Discount Card

仙台市交通割引パス

municipal · Sendai City Transportation Bureau

Who qualifies
Residents aged 65+ or those with specific disability certificates.
What you get
Significant discounts on Sendai subway and bus fares.
What it actually costs you
Application form and proof of age/residency.
Common gotcha
It only works on city-operated lines, not private bus lines.
Akita秋田県

Akita offers unique digital nomad and tech-startup incentives for developers looking to build in a low-cost, high-quality-of-life environment far from the Tokyo grind.

Building my startup in the north

Akita Prefecture Startup Promotion Subsidy

秋田県スタートアップ創出支援事業費補助金

state · Akita Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Tech startups registered in Akita with a focus on digital innovation.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for R&D and office infrastructure costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, 3-year financial projections, and proof of residency.
Common gotcha
The application window is very short, usually opening only in April.

Akita Digital Nomad Residency Support

秋田県デジタルノマド誘致支援

state · Akita Tourism and Strategy Division

Who qualifies
Remote blockchain developers staying in Akita for over 3 months.
What you get
Subsidized co-working space access and networking with local tech hubs.
What it actually costs you
Submission of work contract and proof of remote income.
Common gotcha
Does not replace the national visa; it is a local residency support program.

Akita Industrial Innovation Grant

秋田県産業イノベーション創出事業

state · Akita Industrial Technology Center

Who qualifies
Developers collaborating with local manufacturing firms on blockchain-based supply chain solutions.
What you get
Grants covering 50% of collaborative project costs up to 5 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Requires a formal partnership agreement with an Akita-based SME.
Common gotcha
The project must demonstrate a direct benefit to the local Akita economy.

Akita Tech Talent Relocation Incentive

秋田県UIJターン就職促進助成金

state · Akita Labor Bureau

Who qualifies
IT professionals moving from Tokyo to Akita for tech roles.
What you get
One-time relocation payment of 300,000 JPY.
What it actually costs you
Proof of previous employment in Tokyo and new residency in Akita.
Common gotcha
You must remain in the prefecture for at least 2 years or repay the grant.

Living well in Akita

Akita Rural Housing Renovation Subsidy

秋田県空き家改修補助金

state · Akita Housing Department

Who qualifies
Residents purchasing or renting vacant homes (akiya) in rural Akita.
What you get
Up to 500,000 JPY for high-speed internet and home office setup.
What it actually costs you
Property inspection report and local government approval.
Common gotcha
The home must have been vacant for at least 6 months.

Akita Winter Energy Assistance

秋田県冬期暖房費支援

state · Akita Prefectural Welfare Office

Who qualifies
Low-income households or freelancers with fluctuating income during winter months.
What you get
Direct voucher for heating oil or electricity discounts.
What it actually costs you
Income tax certificates and utility bills.
Common gotcha
Only available for applications submitted between November and January.

Akita Child Medical Expense Subsidy

秋田県子ども医療費助成

state · Akita Prefectural Health Department

Who qualifies
Parents with children under 18 living in Akita.
What you get
Full coverage of medical co-pays at clinics and hospitals.
What it actually costs you
Registration at the local municipal office.
Common gotcha
You must present the subsidy card at every visit to avoid paying out-of-pocket.

Akita Prefectural Transit Pass

秋田県公共交通利用促進パス

state · Akita Transport Bureau

Who qualifies
All residents of Akita prefecture.
What you get
30% discount on monthly bus and local train passes.
What it actually costs you
Annual registration fee of 1,000 JPY.
Common gotcha
Does not apply to Shinkansen or long-distance express trains.
Yamagata山形県

Yamagata offers unique incentives for tech talent and remote workers looking to balance high-end development with a lower cost of living and specific regional innovation subsidies.

Scaling my dev projects locally

Yamagata Prefecture Startup Support Subsidy

山形県スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Yamagata Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Entrepreneurs or developers launching tech-focused startups within Yamagata prefecture.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for initial business development and equipment acquisition.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of residency, and 1/3 matching funds requirement.
Common gotcha
The application window is very narrow, usually opening only once per fiscal year in April.

Yamagata Digital Transformation (DX) Promotion Grant

山形県DX推進事業費補助金

state · Yamagata Industrial Promotion Agency

Who qualifies
Local businesses or developers building digital tools for regional industry modernization.
What you get
Financial support for cloud infrastructure and software development costs.
What it actually costs you
Must demonstrate direct impact on local business efficiency.
Common gotcha
Requires a local business partner; you cannot apply as an individual freelancer without a registered entity.

Yamagata Innovation Lab Access

山形イノベーションラボ利用支援

state · Yamagata Prefecture

Who qualifies
Tech developers and researchers using designated co-working spaces in Yamagata city.
What you get
Subsidized desk rates and access to high-speed fiber infrastructure.
What it actually costs you
Monthly membership fee after 50% state subsidy.
Common gotcha
Limited seating; requires a vetting process for the type of project being developed.

Living and working in the mountains

Yamagata Remote Work Relocation Grant

山形県移住支援金

state · Yamagata Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Individuals moving from Tokyo/major urban areas to Yamagata to work remotely.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY relocation assistance.
What it actually costs you
Must commit to living in the prefecture for at least 5 years.
Common gotcha
You must have lived in the Tokyo 23-ward area for at least 1 year prior to moving.

Yamagata Young Professional Housing Subsidy

山形県若者定住住宅支援

state · Municipal Housing Bureaus

Who qualifies
Professionals under 40 moving to rural parts of Yamagata prefecture.
What you get
Monthly rent subsidy or low-interest renovation loans for older houses.
What it actually costs you
Proof of employment or active freelance income.
Common gotcha
Often excludes the central Yamagata city area; check specific municipal maps.

Yamagata Prefectural Child Medical Expense Subsidy

山形県子ども医療費助成

state · Prefectural Health Department

Who qualifies
Parents residing in Yamagata with children under 18.
What you get
Full or partial coverage of out-of-pocket medical expenses.
What it actually costs you
Registration at the local city hall; annual income verification.
Common gotcha
Varies slightly by municipality; some cover up to 15, others up to 18.
Fukushima福島県

Fukushima offers unique tax incentives and relocation grants for tech professionals and startups looking to build in the renewable energy or digital innovation sectors.

Building my startup in Fukushima

Fukushima Innovation Coast Framework Subsidy

福島イノベーション・コースト構想補助金

state · Fukushima Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Tech startups and R&D firms establishing operations within the designated coastal zones.
What you get
Partial coverage of facility setup costs and equipment investment.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local office registration, and 3-6 months of review time.
Common gotcha
Must maintain operations in the region for at least 5 years to avoid clawback clauses.

Fukushima Digital Nomad & Tech Relocation Grant

福島県デジタル人材移住支援金

state · Fukushima Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
IT professionals moving from Tokyo or abroad to work remotely or for a local tech firm.
What you get
Up to 1,000,000 JPY for relocation expenses and initial housing support.
What it actually costs you
Proof of previous employment, new residency certificate, and a minimum 1-year stay commitment.
Common gotcha
Requires registration with the local municipal office within the first 30 days of arrival.

Living and working comfortably

Fukushima Remote Work Hub Access Card

福島県テレワーク拠点利用支援

state · Fukushima Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Freelancers and remote workers residing in Fukushima prefecture.
What you get
Subsidized monthly access to designated co-working spaces and high-speed fiber hubs.
What it actually costs you
Registration at the local chamber of commerce, monthly usage reporting.
Common gotcha
Credits expire at the end of the fiscal year; they do not roll over.

Fukushima Family Tech-Worker Support

福島県子育て世帯支援プログラム

state · Fukushima Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Families with children under 18 moving to or living in the prefecture.
What you get
Monthly cash allowance per child and discounted access to public recreational facilities.
What it actually costs you
Application via the municipal office, income certificate, and residence tax records.
Common gotcha
Must be renewed annually every April.
Ibaraki茨城県

Ibaraki offers a unique blend of proximity to Tokyo's tech hubs and a lower cost of living, with specific incentives for IT professionals and startups looking to decentralize operations.

Scaling my tech startup in Ibaraki

Ibaraki Startup Support Subsidy

茨城県スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Ibaraki Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Startups registered in Ibaraki focusing on DX or blockchain technology.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for business development and R&D costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, 3 months processing, requires local office registration.
Common gotcha
The application window is very short, usually opening in April.

Ibaraki IT Human Resources Development Grant

茨城県IT人材育成支援事業

state · Ibaraki Department of Industry and Labor

Who qualifies
Companies hiring or training developers in advanced technologies like blockchain.
What you get
Partial reimbursement for training costs and certification fees.
What it actually costs you
Proof of training curriculum and employee payroll records.
Common gotcha
Must be applied for before the training program commences.

Tsukuba Science City Innovation Support

つくば市イノベーション推進補助金

municipal · Tsukuba City Office

Who qualifies
Tech companies located within Tsukuba City boundaries.
What you get
Subsidized office rent and access to shared research facilities.
What it actually costs you
Proof of residency in Tsukuba and a collaborative project proposal.
Common gotcha
Competition is high due to the density of research institutions.

Ibaraki DX Promotion Low-Interest Loan

茨城県DX推進融資

state · Ibaraki Credit Guarantee Association

Who qualifies
SMEs and startups implementing digital infrastructure.
What you get
Low-interest loans with extended repayment terms.
What it actually costs you
Standard financial statements and credit check.
Common gotcha
Requires a clear roadmap of how the loan will be used for digital transformation.

Settling down in Ibaraki

Ibaraki Migration and Relocation Subsidy

茨城県移住支援金

state · Ibaraki Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Individuals moving to Ibaraki from Tokyo's 23 wards for remote work or local employment.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY for relocation expenses.
What it actually costs you
Proof of previous residence in Tokyo and current employment contract.
Common gotcha
You must remain in the prefecture for at least 5 years to avoid repayment.

Ibaraki Child-Rearing Support Program

いばらき子育て家庭優待制度

state · Ibaraki Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Families with children under 18 living in Ibaraki.
What you get
Discount card for local shops, restaurants, and facilities.
What it actually costs you
Application at the local municipal office.
Common gotcha
The card is only valid within the prefecture.

Mito City New Resident Housing Subsidy

水戸市住宅取得支援補助金

municipal · Mito City Office

Who qualifies
Young families purchasing their first home in Mito.
What you get
Cash grant up to 500,000 JPY.
What it actually costs you
Property deed and residency certificate.
Common gotcha
Property must meet specific energy-efficiency standards.

Ibaraki Remote Work Hub Access

茨城県サテライトオフィス利用支援

state · Ibaraki Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Freelancers and remote workers registered in Ibaraki.
What you get
Discounted access to designated co-working spaces across the prefecture.
What it actually costs you
Registration on the prefectural portal.
Common gotcha
Limited to specific partner locations.
Tochigi栃木県

Tochigi offers a unique blend of proximity to Tokyo for tech networking and a lower cost of living, with specific incentives for IT professionals and startups looking to decentralize their operations.

Growing my tech career and startup

Tochigi Prefecture Startup Support Subsidy

栃木県スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Tochigi Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
New businesses or tech ventures registered in Tochigi with high growth potential.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY for business development and marketing expenses.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local registration, and 3-month review period.
Common gotcha
Must demonstrate how the business contributes to the local Tochigi economy.

Utsunomiya Remote Work Relocation Grant

宇都宮市テレワーク移住支援金

municipal · Utsunomiya City Hall

Who qualifies
IT professionals moving from the Tokyo 23 wards to Utsunomiya to work remotely.
What you get
Up to 600,000 JPY for relocation costs and housing support.
What it actually costs you
Proof of previous residence in Tokyo and current employment contract.
Common gotcha
Must commit to living in Utsunomiya for at least 3 years.

Tochigi Digital Transformation Promotion Grant

栃木県DX推進補助金

state · Tochigi Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Small to medium enterprises implementing new digital tools or blockchain-based logistics.
What you get
Covers 50% of costs for software implementation up to 500,000 JPY.
What it actually costs you
Invoices for software/hardware and a post-implementation report.
Common gotcha
Requires a clear 'Digital Transformation' roadmap submitted beforehand.

Tochigi Tech Networking and Event Fund

栃木県IT交流イベント助成金

state · Tochigi Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Organizers of tech meetups or blockchain hackathons held within Tochigi.
What you get
Partial funding for venue rental and marketing materials.
What it actually costs you
Event proposal and post-event attendance report.
Common gotcha
Events must be open to the public and promote local tech talent.

Making life easier in Tochigi

Tochigi Child Medical Expense Subsidy

栃木県子ども医療費助成制度

state · Tochigi Prefectural Welfare Department

Who qualifies
Parents of children living in Tochigi up to junior high school age.
What you get
Full or partial coverage of medical co-pays at clinics.
What it actually costs you
Application at the local municipal office with resident card.
Common gotcha
Coverage limits vary slightly between Utsunomiya and smaller towns.

Tochigi Prefectural Housing Renovation Low-Interest Loan

栃木県住宅リフォーム融資

state · Tochigi Housing Bureau

Who qualifies
Residents renovating their homes for energy efficiency or remote-work setups.
What you get
Preferential interest rates on loans up to 3 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Proof of home ownership and renovation quotes from licensed contractors.
Common gotcha
Must use local Tochigi-based construction firms.

Utsunomiya LRT Commuter Discount

宇都宮ライトレール通勤割引

municipal · Utsunomiya City / LRT Authority

Who qualifies
Regular commuters using the new Utsunomiya Light Rail Transit.
What you get
Up to 20% discount on monthly commuter passes.
What it actually costs you
Registration via IC card (Totra).
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific commuter routes, not one-off tickets.

Tochigi Local Produce Support Voucher

栃木県地産地消応援クーポン

state · Tochigi Agriculture Department

Who qualifies
All residents of Tochigi prefecture.
What you get
Discount vouchers for purchasing local Tochigi produce at participating markets.
What it actually costs you
Distributed via local newsletters or municipal apps.
Common gotcha
Vouchers have short expiration dates.
Gunma群馬県

Gunma offers unique tax incentives and digital infrastructure support for tech startups and blockchain developers looking to escape the high costs of Tokyo.

Scaling my tech business

Gunma Prefecture Startup Support Subsidy

群馬県スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Gunma Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Startups registered in Gunma focusing on DX or blockchain technology.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for business development and R&D costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, tax certificates, and 3-6 months processing time.
Common gotcha
Must maintain office residency in Gunma for at least 3 years.

Gunma DX Promotion Grant

群馬県DX推進事業費補助金

state · Gunma Industrial Promotion Organization

Who qualifies
SMEs and developers implementing blockchain or AI solutions for local industries.
What you get
Covers 50% of implementation costs up to 1 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Application form, proof of project feasibility, and post-project audit.
Common gotcha
The project must demonstrate clear efficiency gains for local businesses.

Net-Tsunagaru Gunma Portal

ネットつなぐ群馬

state · Gunma Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Freelance developers and remote workers living in Gunma.
What you get
Access to co-working space subsidies and networking events with local government officials.
What it actually costs you
Free registration, requires proof of residency.
Common gotcha
Events are often in Japanese only, requiring high language proficiency.

Living in Gunma

Gunma Relocation Support Program

群馬県移住支援金

state · Gunma Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Individuals moving to Gunma from the Tokyo 23 wards to work in tech.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY for relocation expenses.
What it actually costs you
Proof of previous residency and current employment contract in Gunma.
Common gotcha
Must be employed by a company registered in the program.

Maebashi City Child-Rearing Allowance

前橋市子育て支援手当

municipal · Maebashi City Hall

Who qualifies
Residents of Maebashi with children under 15.
What you get
Monthly cash payments based on income and number of children.
What it actually costs you
Annual income declaration and health insurance card.
Common gotcha
Income threshold is strictly enforced.
Saitama埼玉県

Saitama offers a unique blend of proximity to Tokyo's tech hubs and localized support for startups and remote professionals in the blockchain space.

Growing my tech venture

Saitama Prefecture Startup Support Subsidy

埼玉県スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Saitama Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Startups based in Saitama with innovative tech solutions.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for business development and R&D costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, tax certificates, and a rigorous screening process.
Common gotcha
The application window is very narrow and usually opens only once a year.

Saitama Innovation Hub Membership

サイタマ・イノベーション・ハブ

state · Saitama Industrial Promotion Corporation

Who qualifies
Tech entrepreneurs and developers residing in the prefecture.
What you get
Access to co-working spaces, networking events, and mentorship.
What it actually costs you
Small monthly membership fee; requires proof of residency.
Common gotcha
Events are often conducted entirely in Japanese, which can be a barrier for international teams.

Saitama DX Promotion Grant

埼玉県DX推進助成金

state · Saitama Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
SMEs implementing digital transformation (DX) projects.
What you get
Partial reimbursement for software procurement and cloud infrastructure.
What it actually costs you
Must provide receipts and proof of implementation; audit-heavy.
Common gotcha
You must spend the money first and apply for the reimbursement later.

Living and working in Saitama

Saitama Child-Rearing Support Card

パパ・ママ応援ショップ優待カード

state · Saitama Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Families with children under 18 living in Saitama.
What you get
Discounts at participating retail stores, restaurants, and service providers.
What it actually costs you
Free; issued at municipal offices upon showing proof of child's age.
Common gotcha
Many stores require you to show the physical card, not just a digital screenshot.

Saitama Housing Interest Subsidy

埼玉県住宅ローン利子補給制度

state · Saitama Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
First-time homeowners buying a house in specific designated areas.
What you get
Partial interest rate reduction on housing loans.
What it actually costs you
Requires extensive documentation of income and property details.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific municipalities trying to attract young residents.

Saitama Remote Work Relocation Grant

埼玉県移住支援金

state · Saitama Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
People moving from the Tokyo 23 wards to designated areas in Saitama for remote work.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY as a relocation incentive.
What it actually costs you
Must prove employment status and intent to reside for at least 5 years.
Common gotcha
You must apply within a specific timeframe after moving.
Chiba千葉県

Chiba offers a unique blend of proximity to Tokyo's tech hubs and regional innovation grants, making it an ideal base for developers seeking lower cost of living without sacrificing connectivity to the Kanto digital ecosystem.

Scaling my tech projects

Chiba Prefecture Startup Support Subsidy

千葉県スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Chiba Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Startups registered in Chiba with innovative tech solutions.
What you get
Up to 2 million yen for business development and R&D costs.
Common gotcha
The application window is very short, usually opening only once per fiscal year.

Chiba Industrial Promotion Low-Interest Loan

千葉県中小企業融資制度

state · Chiba Industrial Promotion Foundation

Who qualifies
SMEs and tech freelancers operating in Chiba.
What you get
Low-interest business loans to cover operational costs or equipment upgrades.
Common gotcha
Requires a recommendation from the local Chamber of Commerce.

Chiba DX Promotion Grant

千葉県DX推進補助金

state · Chiba Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Businesses implementing digital tools to improve productivity.
What you get
Covers 50% of costs for software implementation or cloud migration.
Common gotcha
Must be used for specific pre-approved digital categories.

Chiba Tech Talent Matching Platform

千葉県IT人材マッチング

state · Chiba Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Tech professionals looking for local projects or remote work.
What you get
Access to a curated list of local companies seeking blockchain or software expertise.
Common gotcha
Most listings are in Japanese, requiring business-level proficiency.

Living well in Chiba

Chiba Child-Rearing Support Card

チーパス

state · Chiba Prefecture

Who qualifies
Residents with children under 18.
What you get
Discounts at participating local retailers, restaurants, and service providers.
Common gotcha
Must show the physical or digital card at the time of purchase.

Chiba Rural Housing Relocation Grant

千葉県移住支援金

state · Chiba Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
People moving from Tokyo to designated rural areas in Chiba.
What you get
Up to 1 million yen for relocation expenses.
Common gotcha
You must commit to living in the area for at least 5 years.

Chiba Medical Expense Subsidy for Children

千葉県子ども医療費助成

state · Municipalities within Chiba

Who qualifies
Children up to junior high school age (varies by city).
What you get
Full or partial coverage of medical co-pays.
Common gotcha
Coverage limits vary significantly between cities like Chiba City and Urayasu.
Tokyo東京都

Tokyo provides the most robust support for deep-tech startups and blockchain developers through massive R&D subsidies and specialized incubation hubs.

Funding my startup and tech projects

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Innovation Subsidy

東京都革新的技術開発支援事業

state · Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG)

Who qualifies
Startups based in Tokyo working on blockchain, AI, or Web3 technologies.
What you get
Up to 50% of R&D costs covered, capped at 10 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, 3-year financial projection, and proof of Tokyo office registration.
Common gotcha
The application window is very short; you must have your corporate registration ready before applying.

Tokyo Blockchain Innovation Hub Program

ブロックチェーンビジネス創出プログラム

state · Tokyo Metropolitan Government

Who qualifies
Early-stage blockchain developers and founders.
What you get
Free co-working space in Shinjuku/Marunouchi and mentorship from industry leaders.
What it actually costs you
Competitive pitch process; requires a functional MVP.
Common gotcha
You must be physically present in the hub for weekly mentoring sessions.

Tokyo Global Talent Support

東京グローバル人材支援

state · Tokyo Metropolitan Government

Who qualifies
Highly skilled foreign tech professionals working in Tokyo.
What you get
Consultation services for visa status and tax optimization for tech workers.
What it actually costs you
Documentation of employment contract and technical certifications.
Common gotcha
This is advisory support, not a direct visa issuance; it helps navigate the immigration process.

Tokyo DX Promotion Grant

東京DX推進助成金

state · Tokyo Metropolitan Government

Who qualifies
Small to medium tech firms implementing blockchain for supply chain or finance.
What you get
Grant of up to 3 million JPY for digital infrastructure upgrades.
What it actually costs you
Submission of project milestones and final audit report.
Common gotcha
Funds are provided as a reimbursement after project completion, not upfront.

Living in the city as a developer

Tokyo Child-Rearing Support Allowance

東京都子育て支援手当

state · Tokyo Metropolitan Government

Who qualifies
Parents residing in Tokyo with children under 18.
What you get
Monthly cash stipend per child to offset living costs.
What it actually costs you
Application at your local ward office (Kuyakusho).
Common gotcha
Income caps apply; if you earn over a certain threshold, you get a reduced amount.

Tokyo Medical Expense Subsidy for Children

乳幼児医療費助成制度

municipal · Tokyo Ward Offices

Who qualifies
Children living in Tokyo wards.
What you get
Full coverage of medical expenses for children at clinics and hospitals.
What it actually costs you
Registration with your local ward office to receive the medical card.
Common gotcha
You must present the card at every visit, or you pay upfront and claim later.

Tokyo Housing Assistance for Young Professionals

若年層向け住宅支援

state · Tokyo Metropolitan Housing Supply Corporation

Who qualifies
Professionals under 35 living in Tokyo.
What you get
Subsidized rent for specific residential complexes in Tokyo.
What it actually costs you
Lottery-based application process.
Common gotcha
Extremely high competition; keep an eye on the monthly lottery release dates.

Tokyo Tech Commuter Benefit

通勤手当非課税枠

state · Tokyo Tax Bureau

Who qualifies
Employees receiving commuting allowances.
What you get
Tax exemption on commuting costs up to 150,000 JPY per month.
What it actually costs you
Employer must report this correctly in the payroll system.
Common gotcha
Only applies to the most economical route; using a more expensive route requires justification.
Kanagawa神奈川県

Kanagawa offers a unique blend of proximity to Tokyo's tech hubs and specific regional incentives for startups and blockchain-focused R&D projects.

Scaling my dev projects

Kanagawa Startup Support Subsidy

神奈川県スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Kanagawa Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Startups based in Kanagawa focusing on new technology like blockchain or AI.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for R&D and market expansion costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, tax certificates, and proof of local office registration.
Common gotcha
Requires a physical office presence within Kanagawa prefecture, not just a remote team.

Yokohama Regulatory Sandbox

横浜市規制のサンドボックス

municipal · Yokohama City Economic Bureau

Who qualifies
Developers testing blockchain solutions that require regulatory exemptions.
What you get
Permission to test innovative services in a controlled environment with city support.
What it actually costs you
Rigorous application process and compliance reporting.
Common gotcha
The sandbox is strictly for projects that face specific legal barriers in Japan.

Kanagawa Tech Matching Platform

かながわテックマッチング

state · Kanagawa Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Local tech developers looking for enterprise partners in the region.
What you get
Introductions to local manufacturing and logistics firms for blockchain pilot projects.
What it actually costs you
Free registration, but requires a professional profile and portfolio.
Common gotcha
Networking events are often in-person in Yokohama; remote-only participation is limited.

Kanagawa Patent Application Subsidy

特許出願支援補助金

state · Kanagawa Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Small businesses and individual developers filing for tech patents.
What you get
Covers 50% of patent application fees up to 300,000 JPY.
What it actually costs you
Must apply before the official patent filing date.
Common gotcha
Does not cover attorney fees, only the official government filing costs.

Living as a dev in Kanagawa

Kanagawa Child Medical Expense Subsidy

神奈川県子ども医療費助成

state · Municipalities within Kanagawa

Who qualifies
Parents of children living in Kanagawa (varies by city).
What you get
Full or partial coverage of medical expenses for children.
What it actually costs you
Application at the city hall with health insurance card.
Common gotcha
Income limits apply in some cities; check your specific ward office.

Kanagawa Housing Loan Interest Subsidy

住宅ローン利子補給

state · Kanagawa Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
First-time homebuyers purchasing energy-efficient homes in the prefecture.
What you get
Reduced interest rates for the first 5 years of the mortgage.
What it actually costs you
Proof of income and building energy certification.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific eco-friendly housing standards.

Kanagawa Public Transport Support

公共交通支援

municipal · Yokohama/Kawasaki Transport Bureaus

Who qualifies
Residents using specific municipal transport lines for daily commute.
What you get
Discounted monthly passes for long-distance commuters within the prefecture.
What it actually costs you
Proof of residency and employment.
Common gotcha
Does not stack with standard employer-provided transport allowances.
Niigata新潟県

Niigata offers a unique blend of lower cost-of-living for remote tech talent and aggressive regional subsidies for companies looking to decentralize operations away from Tokyo.

Scaling my dev projects and startup

Niigata Prefecture Digital Transformation Promotion Subsidy

新潟県DX推進支援補助金

state · Niigata Prefectural Government Industry Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Small to medium enterprises or sole proprietors implementing blockchain or AI solutions.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY to cover 50% of development or implementation costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local office, and 3 months of processing time.
Common gotcha
You must prove the technology directly improves local productivity or solves a regional issue.

Niigata Venture Capital Co-Investment Program

新潟ベンチャーキャピタル投資事業

state · Niigata Venture Capital

Who qualifies
Early-stage tech startups with a registered office in Niigata.
What you get
Equity investment ranging from 5 million to 50 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck, audited financial statements, and rigorous due diligence.
Common gotcha
They prioritize companies that intend to hire local university graduates.

Niigata City Office Rental Subsidy for Tech Firms

新潟市IT企業オフィス賃料補助金

municipal · Niigata City Economic Promotion Department

Who qualifies
IT companies or freelancers moving to or expanding in Niigata City.
What you get
Reimbursement of up to 30% of monthly office rent for 2 years.
What it actually costs you
Lease agreement, proof of business registration, and tax payment certificates.
Common gotcha
Only applies to designated 'IT Promotion Zones' within the city.

Niigata Open Innovation Matching Platform

新潟オープンイノベーションプラットフォーム

state · Niigata Industrial Creation Organization

Who qualifies
Developers looking to partner with traditional Niigata manufacturing firms.
What you get
Free access to industry networking events and R&D matching services.
What it actually costs you
Registration on the portal and attending quarterly meetups.
Common gotcha
Requires a high level of business Japanese to navigate the networking events effectively.

Living and working in Niigata

Niigata Prefecture Remote Worker Relocation Grant

新潟県移住支援金

state · Niigata Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Individuals moving from the Tokyo 23 wards to Niigata for remote work.
What you get
One-time payment of up to 1 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Proof of residency change and employment contract confirmation.
Common gotcha
You must stay in the prefecture for at least 5 years or return the money.

Niigata City Childcare Subsidy for Tech Workers

新潟市子育て支援金

municipal · Niigata City Welfare Department

Who qualifies
Families with children under 15 living in Niigata City.
What you get
Monthly stipend of 5,000 to 15,000 JPY per child depending on income.
What it actually costs you
Annual income declaration and residence certificate.
Common gotcha
The benefit amount is strictly tied to the previous year's tax return.

Niigata City Snow Removal Assistance

新潟市除雪支援

municipal · Niigata City Public Works

Who qualifies
Residents in designated heavy-snow zones.
What you get
Subsidized snow removal services for driveways and roofs.
What it actually costs you
Application before the winter season begins in November.
Common gotcha
Priority is given to elderly households; tech workers may be waitlisted.
Toyama富山県

Toyama offers a unique blend of low-cost living and a growing 'Toyama Digital Transformation' initiative that provides specific incentives for tech professionals and startups moving into the region.

Scaling my tech projects here

Toyama Digital Transformation Promotion Subsidy

富山県デジタル化推進事業費補助金

state · Toyama Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Tech startups or developers implementing AI/Blockchain solutions for local industries.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY to cover development and cloud infrastructure costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed project proposal and proof of local business registration.
Common gotcha
Must demonstrate direct impact on a local Toyama business sector.

Toyama Startup Office Rental Grant

富山県スタートアップオフィス賃料補助

state · Toyama Industrial Promotion Organization

Who qualifies
New tech businesses setting up an office in Toyama City or Takaoka.
What you get
50% reimbursement on monthly office rent for up to 24 months.
What it actually costs you
Lease agreement and business plan submission.
Common gotcha
Only applies to designated 'startup-friendly' office zones.

Toyama Innovation Voucher

富山県イノベーション創出支援事業

state · Toyama Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Developers collaborating with local manufacturing firms on IoT/Blockchain integration.
What you get
Vouchers worth 500,000 JPY for technical consulting or hardware procurement.
What it actually costs you
Must have a signed partnership agreement with a local SME.
Common gotcha
The voucher is non-transferable and expires within the fiscal year.

Toyama Tech Talent Relocation Incentive

富山県移住支援金

state · Toyama Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Tech professionals moving from Tokyo/Osaka to Toyama for remote work or local employment.
What you get
One-time payment of up to 1 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Proof of previous residence and employment contract in Toyama.
Common gotcha
You must stay in the prefecture for at least 5 years to avoid repayment.

Living well in the mountains

Toyama Family Support System

富山県ファミリー・サポート・センター

state · Toyama Prefectural Welfare Department

Who qualifies
Parents needing temporary childcare while working on projects.
What you get
Subsidized hourly rates for child-minding services.
What it actually costs you
Registration fee and interview with local coordinator.
Common gotcha
Requires advance booking; not for emergency same-day needs.

Toyama Residential Solar/Battery Rebate

富山県住宅用太陽光発電システム設置補助金

state · Toyama Environmental Bureau

Who qualifies
Homeowners installing solar panels or home battery storage.
What you get
Cash rebate of 50,000 to 150,000 JPY depending on system size.
What it actually costs you
Receipts from certified local installers.
Common gotcha
Must apply before starting the installation.

Toyama Wellness Passport

とやま子育て応援団

state · Toyama Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Families with children under 18 living in Toyama.
What you get
Discounts at local restaurants, museums, and retail stores.
What it actually costs you
Free registration online.
Common gotcha
Must show the digital card at the point of sale.

Toyama Light Rail Commuter Pass Subsidy

富山ライトレール通勤定期券補助

municipal · Toyama City Transport Bureau

Who qualifies
Residents commuting via the Toyama Light Rail (Portram).
What you get
20% discount on monthly commuter passes.
What it actually costs you
Proof of residency and employment.
Common gotcha
Only valid for specific commuter routes.
Ishikawa石川県

Ishikawa offers a unique blend of traditional craft industry support and high-tech incubation, specifically targeting developers looking to integrate blockchain with local manufacturing and tourism sectors.

Scaling my tech startup in Kanazawa

Ishikawa Prefecture Startup Promotion Subsidy

石川県スタートアップ創出支援事業

state · Ishikawa Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Startups based in Ishikawa with less than 5 years of operation.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for product development and market expansion.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local office, 1/2 matching funds required.
Common gotcha
The application window is very short, usually opening only once a year in April.

Kanazawa Innovation Hub Membership

金沢イノベーションハブ利用支援

municipal · Kanazawa City

Who qualifies
Freelance developers and tech founders residing in Kanazawa.
What you get
Subsidized co-working space and access to local business networking events.
What it actually costs you
Monthly membership fee reduced by 50% for the first year.
Common gotcha
Limited desk availability; requires a pitch of your project to the management board.

Ishikawa Digital Transformation Grant

石川県DX推進事業費補助金

state · Ishikawa Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Tech companies helping local SMEs implement digital solutions.
What you get
Grants covering 2/3 of project costs for digital infrastructure upgrades.
What it actually costs you
Must partner with a local Ishikawa-based manufacturing or tourism firm.
Common gotcha
The project must show measurable productivity gains for the local partner.

ISICO Expert Dispatch Program

石川県産業創出支援機構専門家派遣

state · Ishikawa Prefecture Industrial Creation Organization (ISICO)

Who qualifies
Any tech entrepreneur registered in Ishikawa.
What you get
Free consultation with legal, tax, or blockchain-specialized mentors.
What it actually costs you
Application form and an initial meeting at the ISICO office.
Common gotcha
Experts are often booked weeks in advance; plan your consultation early.

Living and working in the region

Ishikawa Telework Relocation Incentive

石川県移住テレワーク支援金

state · Ishikawa Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Developers moving to Ishikawa from the Tokyo metropolitan area.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY relocation support grant.
What it actually costs you
Must commit to living in the prefecture for at least 3 years.
Common gotcha
You must be employed by a company outside Ishikawa or be a self-employed freelancer.

Kanazawa City Childcare Subsidy for Tech Workers

金沢市子育て世帯支援

municipal · Kanazawa City Hall

Who qualifies
Families with children under 18 living in Kanazawa.
What you get
Monthly cash allowance and heavily subsidized nursery school costs.
What it actually costs you
Annual income declaration and residency certificate.
Common gotcha
Income caps apply for the highest tier of benefits.

Ishikawa Prefectural Housing Loan Interest Subsidy

石川県住宅ローン利子補給

state · Ishikawa Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
First-time homebuyers building or buying a home in rural Ishikawa.
What you get
Interest rate reduction of 0.5% for the first 5 years.
What it actually costs you
Proof of permanent residency and local tax payment records.
Common gotcha
Not applicable for properties in the central Kanazawa city core.
Fukui福井県

Fukui offers unique incentives for tech talent to settle in a region known for its high quality of life and proximity to Kyoto and Osaka.

Setting up my tech life here

Fukui Telework Promotion Grant

福井県テレワーク導入支援事業

state · Fukui Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Remote workers relocating to Fukui from major metropolitan areas.
What you get
Up to 500,000 JPY for office equipment and relocation expenses.
What it actually costs you
Proof of residence change and employment contract; 2-3 months processing.
Common gotcha
You must stay in the prefecture for at least 2 years or repay the grant.

Fukui Startup Acceleration Program

福井県スタートアップ支援事業

state · Fukui Industrial Support Center

Who qualifies
Early-stage tech startups registered in Fukui.
What you get
Mentorship, office space subsidies, and up to 1 million JPY in seed funding.
What it actually costs you
Business plan submission and pitch interview.
Common gotcha
Requires a local business registration (Hojin).

Living well in the prefecture

Fukui Child-Rearing Support Card

ふく育応援団

state · Fukui Prefecture

Who qualifies
All families with children under 18 living in Fukui.
What you get
Discounts at local shops, restaurants, and museums.
What it actually costs you
Application at municipal office; digital card available.
Common gotcha
Discounts vary significantly by participating merchant.

Fukui Housing Renovation Grant

福井県住宅リフォーム支援

state · Fukui Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Residents renovating older homes to meet modern energy standards.
What you get
Up to 300,000 JPY rebate on renovation costs.
What it actually costs you
Contractor quotes and building inspection reports.
Common gotcha
Must apply before starting construction work.
Yamanashi山梨県

Yamanashi offers a unique blend of proximity to Tokyo for remote tech work and specific regional incentives for tech talent looking to escape the urban grind.

Moving my tech life to the mountains

Yamanashi Prefecture Telework Promotion Subsidy

山梨県テレワーク推進事業費補助金

state · Yamanashi Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Remote workers or IT freelancers moving their primary residence to Yamanashi from Tokyo.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY for relocation expenses and home office setup costs.
What it actually costs you
Proof of residency change and a contract showing remote work status.
Common gotcha
You must commit to living in the prefecture for at least 3 years to avoid repayment.

Kofu City Startup Incubation Program

甲府市スタートアップ支援事業

municipal · Kofu City Industrial Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Early-stage tech entrepreneurs or developers launching a business in Kofu.
What you get
Subsidized office space and access to local business mentoring networks.
What it actually costs you
A solid business plan and a pitch presentation to the selection committee.
Common gotcha
The program focuses heavily on businesses that contribute to the local economy, not just solo digital nomads.

Making life easier in the countryside

Yamanashi Prefectural Child Medical Expense Subsidy

山梨県子ども医療費助成制度

state · Yamanashi Prefectural Health Department

Who qualifies
Parents with children residing in Yamanashi.
What you get
Full or partial coverage of medical expenses for children up to junior high school age.
What it actually costs you
Application at your local city hall with your health insurance card.
Common gotcha
Each city within Yamanashi has slightly different income caps and age limits.

Yamanashi Prefectural Tourism Discount Pass

山梨県観光割引パス

state · Yamanashi Tourism Organization

Who qualifies
Residents of Yamanashi prefecture.
What you get
Discounts on local hot springs (onsen) and regional transport passes.
What it actually costs you
Must show a local driver's license or residency card at the point of sale.
Common gotcha
These are often seasonal and require checking the official tourism portal for active codes.
Nagano長野県

Nagano offers unique tax incentives and relocation grants for tech professionals looking to balance high-end remote development work with a high quality of life in the Japanese Alps.

Moving to the Mountains

Nagano Prefecture Telework Promotion Grant

長野県テレワーク推進補助金

state · Nagano Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Remote workers moving from Tokyo or other major metros to Nagano.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY for home office setup and relocation costs.
What it actually costs you
Proof of residency change and employment contract; 3-month processing time.
Common gotcha
Must maintain residency for at least 3 years to avoid repayment.

Nagano Co-working Space Voucher

state · Nagano Industrial Promotion Agency

Who qualifies
Freelance developers registered in Nagano.
What you get
50% discount on monthly fees at certified local tech hubs.
What it actually costs you
Registration with the prefectural digital registry.
Common gotcha
Only valid at designated 'Smart Work' certified locations.

Scaling My Projects

Nagano Tech Innovation Fund

長野県スタートアップ支援事業

state · Nagano Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Early-stage tech startups based in Nagano.
What you get
Grants up to 3 million JPY for R&D and prototype development.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan and pitch deck; annual reporting required.
Common gotcha
Requires a local office presence in Nagano.

Nagano DX Promotion Grant

長野県DX推進補助金

state · Department of Industry and Labor

Who qualifies
Developers building tools for local Nagano businesses.
What you get
Subsidies covering 2/3 of development costs.
What it actually costs you
Must partner with at least one local SME.
Common gotcha
The application window is very short, usually in April.
Gifu岐阜県

Gifu offers unique regional support for tech innovation and startup relocation, balancing a lower cost of living with proximity to the Nagoya industrial hub.

Scaling my dev projects and startup

Gifu Prefecture Startup Support Subsidy

岐阜県スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Gifu Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Startups registered in Gifu focusing on digital transformation or new tech.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY for business development and R&D costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan and proof of local office registration.
Common gotcha
Requires a physical office presence in Gifu, not just a virtual address.

Gifu DX Promotion Grant

岐阜県DX推進事業費補助金

state · Gifu Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Local SMEs or tech freelancers partnering with Gifu-based manufacturers.
What you get
Subsidies for implementing blockchain or cloud-based supply chain solutions.
What it actually costs you
Proof of partnership with a local Gifu firm.
Common gotcha
The project must demonstrate clear efficiency gains for the local partner.

Gifu Tech Incubation Space Access

岐阜県産業技術総合センター利用支援

state · Gifu Prefectural Industrial Technology Center

Who qualifies
Tech developers working on hardware-software integration.
What you get
Discounted access to high-end prototyping labs and testing equipment.
What it actually costs you
Application fee and project proposal approval.
Common gotcha
Limited hours for external developers; must book in advance.

Making Gifu my home base

Gifu Remote Work Relocation Grant

岐阜県移住支援金

state · Gifu Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Individuals moving from the Tokyo metropolitan area to Gifu for remote work.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY relocation grant for singles or families.
What it actually costs you
Must reside in Gifu for at least 5 years and maintain employment.
Common gotcha
Must apply within 3 months of moving to the new municipality.

Gifu Child-Rearing Passport

ぎふっこカード

state · Gifu Prefecture

Who qualifies
Families with children under 18 living in Gifu.
What you get
Discounts at participating local shops, restaurants, and service providers.
What it actually costs you
Free registration at municipal offices.
Common gotcha
Discounts vary significantly by store; check the sticker at the entrance.

Gifu Prefecture Housing Loan Interest Subsidy

岐阜県住宅ローン利子補給

state · Gifu Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
First-time homeowners building or buying energy-efficient homes in Gifu.
What you get
Partial interest rate reduction for the first 5 years of the mortgage.
What it actually costs you
Requires certification of home energy standards.
Common gotcha
Must be used in conjunction with specific local banking partners.
Shizuoka静岡県

Shizuoka offers a unique blend of high-tech manufacturing subsidies and digital transformation grants that appeal to blockchain developers looking to integrate Web3 with the prefecture's robust automotive and robotics supply chains.

Funding for my dev projects

Shizuoka Prefecture Digital Transformation (DX) Promotion Grant

静岡県デジタル技術活用促進事業費補助金

state · Shizuoka Prefectural Government, Department of Industry

Who qualifies
Startups and developers building solutions that digitize local manufacturing processes.
What you get
Requires a detailed project plan and proof of collaboration with a local SME.
Common gotcha
The grant is reimbursement-based; you must have the cash flow to cover expenses upfront.

Hamamatsu City Startup Visa Program

浜松市スタートアップビザ

municipal · Hamamatsu City Government

Who qualifies
Foreign blockchain developers aiming to launch a tech startup in Hamamatsu.
What you get
Business plan approval, proof of funding, and local government support letter.
Common gotcha
You must transition to a standard business manager visa within the 6-month window.

Shizuoka Tech Incubator Support

静岡県産業振興財団インキュベーション支援

state · Shizuoka Industrial Promotion Foundation

Who qualifies
Early-stage tech founders based in Shizuoka.
What you get
Application form and interview with the foundation board.
Common gotcha
Limited slots; you need to demonstrate how your tech benefits the local economy.

Fuji-area Tech Innovation Fund

富士山麓地域イノベーション補助金

state · Shizuoka Prefecture

Who qualifies
Developers building green-tech or energy-tracking blockchain solutions.
What you get
Detailed technical documentation and energy efficiency reports.
Common gotcha
Focuses heavily on sustainability; your project must show a 'green' angle.

Living well in Shizuoka

Shizuoka Relocation Subsidy for Young Professionals

静岡県移住支援金

state · Shizuoka Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Professionals moving from Tokyo to Shizuoka for remote or local tech work.
What you get
Proof of previous residence in Tokyo and employment contract in Shizuoka.
Common gotcha
You must stay in the prefecture for at least 5 years or risk repayment.

Shizuoka Prefecture Childcare Support Card

しずおか子育て優待カード

state · Shizuoka Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Families with children under 18 living in Shizuoka.
What you get
Simple registration at your local municipal office.
Common gotcha
Only valid at participating 'Passport' stores; look for the logo.
Aichi愛知県

Aichi is Japan's industrial powerhouse, offering unique subsidies for tech integration in manufacturing and startup support for developers building in the Web3/blockchain space.

Scaling my tech startup in Nagoya

Aichi Startup Support Fund

愛知県スタートアップ支援基金

state · Aichi Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Startups based in Aichi with innovative tech solutions including blockchain applications.
What you get
Grants up to 5 million JPY for R&D and market expansion.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, pitch deck, and proof of local incorporation.
Common gotcha
The application window is very short, usually opening only once per fiscal year.

Nagoya Innovation Hub Subsidy

名古屋市イノベーション拠点補助金

municipal · Nagoya City Economic Bureau

Who qualifies
Tech companies setting up offices in designated innovation zones in Nagoya.
What you get
Partial coverage of office rent and high-speed internet infrastructure costs.
What it actually costs you
Lease agreement and proof of business registration in Nagoya city.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific districts defined as 'Innovation Zones'.

Aichi DX Promotion Grant

愛知県デジタル化推進補助金

state · Aichi Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
SMEs and tech developers implementing digital solutions for local manufacturing.
What you get
Up to 50% of implementation costs for blockchain-based supply chain tracking.
What it actually costs you
Technical proposal and partnership agreement with a local manufacturer.
Common gotcha
You must prove the project directly improves productivity in the local manufacturing sector.

Nagoya Global Talent Support

名古屋市高度外国人材支援

municipal · Nagoya City

Who qualifies
Blockchain developers moving to Nagoya for tech roles.
What you get
Consultation services for visa processing and local housing assistance.
What it actually costs you
Employment contract and passport documentation.
Common gotcha
This is a support service, not a direct cash grant.

Living comfortably in Nagoya

Aichi Child Rearing Support Card

はぐみんカード

state · Aichi Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Parents with children under 18 living in Aichi.
What you get
Discounts at participating local shops, restaurants, and museums.
What it actually costs you
Free, issued at municipal offices upon registration.
Common gotcha
Must be presented at the time of purchase; cannot be applied retroactively.

Nagoya City Transport Commuter Pass

名古屋市交通局通勤定期券

municipal · Nagoya City Transportation Bureau

Who qualifies
Residents commuting via Nagoya subway or city bus.
What you get
Significant reduction in monthly travel costs compared to single tickets.
What it actually costs you
Manaca card purchase and registration at station kiosks.
Common gotcha
If you lose your Manaca card, you must report it immediately to recover the balance.

Aichi Medical Expense Subsidy for Children

愛知県子ども医療費助成制度

state · Aichi Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Children residing in Aichi up to middle school age.
What you get
Full or partial coverage of medical expenses and prescription drugs.
What it actually costs you
Application at your local city hall to receive the medical certificate.
Common gotcha
Coverage limits vary slightly by specific city/ward within Aichi.
Mie三重県

Mie offers a unique blend of industrial tech support and regional innovation grants that help tech professionals transition into local R&D hubs.

Funding my tech projects

Mie Prefecture Industrial Innovation Grant

三重県産業イノベーション創出補助金

state · Mie Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Tech startups or individual developers working on local industrial automation or blockchain-based supply chain solutions.
What you get
Up to 50% of R&D costs covered, capped at 2 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local office registration, and 3 months of review time.
Common gotcha
The project must demonstrate a clear benefit to Mie-based manufacturing or tourism industries.

Mie Startup Ecosystem Program

三重県スタートアップ支援プログラム

state · Mie Industrial Support Center

Who qualifies
Early-stage developers and tech founders based in Mie.
What you get
Access to co-working spaces in Tsu and mentorship from local industry leaders.
What it actually costs you
Application through the local chamber of commerce; requires a pitch deck.
Common gotcha
Mentorship sessions are often held in-person in Tsu, requiring travel if you live in remote areas.

Mie DX Promotion Voucher

三重県DX推進支援事業

state · Mie Digital Society Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Developers providing digital solutions to local SMEs.
What you get
Vouchers to offset costs for cloud infrastructure and security auditing tools.
What it actually costs you
Must be registered as a service provider in the Mie Prefecture vendor list.
Common gotcha
The voucher is paid as a reimbursement after the project completion.

Mie Tech Talent Relocation Incentive

三重県移住支援金

state · Mie Employment Promotion Office

Who qualifies
IT professionals moving to Mie from Tokyo or other major metros.
What you get
One-time grant of up to 1 million JPY for relocation expenses.
What it actually costs you
Proof of employment in a local firm or proof of starting a business in Mie.
Common gotcha
You must reside in the prefecture for at least 5 years to avoid repayment.

Living well in Mie

Mie Child-Rearing Support Card

三重県子育て家庭優待カード

state · Mie Prefecture Health and Welfare Department

Who qualifies
Families with children under 18 living in Mie.
What you get
Discounts at local supermarkets, pharmacies, and cultural facilities.
What it actually costs you
Free; apply at your local municipal office.
Common gotcha
The card is only valid at participating merchants; check for the 'Mie-no-Kuni' sticker.

Mie Prefectural Housing Loan Interest Subsidy

三重県住宅ローン利子補給制度

state · Mie Housing Bureau

Who qualifies
First-time homeowners buying a house in designated rural development zones.
What you get
Reduction of interest rates by 0.5% for the first 3 years.
What it actually costs you
Requires certification from the local municipal office regarding the property location.
Common gotcha
Only applies to new builds or specific renovation projects in designated areas.

Mie Prefecture Commuter Pass Subsidy

三重県通勤定期券補助

state · Mie Prefectural Transport Bureau

Who qualifies
Residents commuting to work in Tsu or Yokkaichi via public rail.
What you get
10% discount on monthly commuter passes for long-distance travel.
What it actually costs you
Application through your employer; requires proof of residence and commute route.
Common gotcha
Not applicable to Shinkansen or limited express surcharges.
Shiga滋賀県

Shiga offers a unique ecosystem for tech professionals to balance high-tech innovation with a sustainable lifestyle near Lake Biwa, featuring specific regional support for startups and remote work infrastructure.

Growing my startup in Shiga

Shiga Prefecture Startup Support Subsidy

滋賀県スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Shiga Prefectural Government, Commerce and Industry Division

Who qualifies
Startups registered in Shiga focusing on digital transformation or blockchain.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for equipment and office setup costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, 3 years of financial projections, and proof of local office lease.
Common gotcha
The application window is very short, usually opening only once per fiscal year in April.

Shiga DX Promotion Grant

滋賀県DX推進助成金

state · Shiga Industrial Support Plaza

Who qualifies
Small to medium enterprises in Shiga adopting new tech like blockchain.
What you get
50% of implementation costs up to 1 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Submission of a digital transformation roadmap and vendor quotes.
Common gotcha
Must demonstrate that the tech directly improves operational efficiency.

Living well near the lake

Shiga Remote Work Relocation Grant

滋賀県移住支援金

state · Shiga Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Professionals moving to Shiga from outside the prefecture to work remotely.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY for relocation expenses.
What it actually costs you
Proof of residency and employment contract or freelance registration.
Common gotcha
You must commit to living in the prefecture for at least 5 years.

Lake Biwa Eco-Point System

びわ湖エコポイント

state · Shiga Prefectural Environment Department

Who qualifies
Residents who participate in local environmental conservation activities.
What you get
Points convertible to local shopping vouchers or transit credits.
What it actually costs you
Registration via the official mobile app and scanning QR codes at event sites.
Common gotcha
Points expire at the end of the fiscal year; don't hoard them.
Kyoto京都府

Kyoto offers unique tax incentives and incubation support for deep-tech and blockchain startups that align with the prefecture's vision for 'Kyoto-style' sustainable innovation.

Scaling my blockchain venture

Kyoto Prefecture Startup Support Subsidy

京都府スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Kyoto Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Startups incorporated in Kyoto focusing on digital transformation or blockchain.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for R&D and market expansion costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local incorporation, 3-month review process.
Common gotcha
The application window is very short, usually opening only once per fiscal year.

Kyoto Research Park Incubation Program

京都リサーチパーク入居支援

state · Kyoto Research Park Corporation

Who qualifies
Early-stage tech developers and blockchain startups.
What you get
Subsidized office rent and access to high-speed fiber infrastructure.
What it actually costs you
Monthly rent (at 50% market rate), pitch deck presentation.
Common gotcha
Requires physical presence in the KRP district; remote-only teams are rarely accepted.

Kyoto DX Promotion Grant

京都DX推進助成金

state · Kyoto Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Companies implementing blockchain for supply chain or local heritage preservation.
What you get
Reimbursement of up to 50% of software development costs.
What it actually costs you
Receipts for all dev expenses, audit of the implemented solution.
Common gotcha
The project must demonstrate a clear benefit to the Kyoto local economy.

Kyoto Angel Tax Incentive

京都エンジェル税制

state · Kyoto Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Investors backing Kyoto-based blockchain startups.
What you get
Significant income tax deduction on invested capital.
What it actually costs you
Registration of the startup as a qualified entity.
Common gotcha
Startup must be certified by the prefecture before the investment is made.

Living and working in the city

Kyoto City Young Professional Housing Subsidy

京都市若年層定住促進家賃補助

municipal · Kyoto City Hall

Who qualifies
Professionals under 35 moving to designated revitalization zones.
What you get
Monthly rent subsidy of 10,000 JPY for 3 years.
What it actually costs you
Proof of residency, income tax certificate, lease agreement.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific neighborhoods identified by the city.

Kyoto Coworking Space Voucher

京都コワーキングスペース利用券

municipal · Kyoto City Industry Promotion Bureau

Who qualifies
Freelance developers and remote workers living in Kyoto.
What you get
Discounted access to 10+ partner coworking spaces across the city.
What it actually costs you
Registration via the city portal, small annual fee.
Common gotcha
Vouchers are non-transferable and expire at the end of the fiscal year.

Kyoto Global Talent Support

京都グローバル人材支援

state · Kyoto Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
International blockchain developers seeking long-term residency.
What you get
Consultation on visa status and networking with local tech firms.
What it actually costs you
Free service, but requires attendance at local networking events.
Common gotcha
Does not replace immigration legal services; it is purely advisory.
Osaka大阪府

Osaka is a global hub for blockchain innovation, offering unique tax incentives, startup grants, and specialized tech-ecosystem support for developers.

Funding my next project

Osaka Startup Subsidy Program

大阪府スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Osaka Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Early-stage tech startups registered in Osaka with a focus on Web3 or AI.
What you get
Up to 5 million JPY for R&D and office space costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local incorporation, 3-month review process.
Common gotcha
Requires a local bank account and proof of tax residency in Osaka.

Osaka Innovation Hub (OIH) Membership

大阪イノベーションハブ

state · Osaka City / OIH

Who qualifies
Developers and tech entrepreneurs working in Osaka.
What you get
Access to co-working spaces, networking events, and mentorship from industry leaders.
What it actually costs you
Annual membership fee of 12,000 JPY, application form.
Common gotcha
Events are often in Japanese, though tech-focused ones have English support.

Osaka Tech Talent Attraction Grant

大阪IT人材獲得支援事業

state · Osaka Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Companies hiring blockchain developers in Osaka.
What you get
Subsidies for relocation and training costs for new hires.
What it actually costs you
Employment contract, proof of residence in Osaka for the employee.
Common gotcha
The company must apply, not the individual developer.

Osaka Blockchain Regulatory Sandbox

大阪ブロックチェーン実証実験

state · Osaka Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Developers testing blockchain solutions in real-world environments.
What you get
Temporary exemption from specific local regulations to test new protocols.
What it actually costs you
Rigorous safety and compliance audit, 6-month application window.
Common gotcha
Strict reporting requirements on data privacy.

Living as a dev in Osaka

Osaka Young Professional Housing Support

大阪府若年層住宅支援

state · Osaka Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Professionals under 35 moving to designated tech-development zones.
What you get
Monthly rent subsidy of 10,000 JPY for 2 years.
What it actually costs you
Proof of employment, lease agreement, income tax certificate.
Common gotcha
Limited to specific districts in Osaka City.

Osaka Metro Commuter Pass Discount

大阪メトロ通勤定期割引

municipal · Osaka Metro

Who qualifies
Employees commuting to offices within Osaka City.
What you get
Up to 30% discount on monthly transit passes.
What it actually costs you
Employer-issued commuting certificate.
Common gotcha
Must be renewed every 6 months.

Osaka Resident Wellness Program

大阪府健康づくり支援

state · Osaka Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
All registered residents of Osaka.
What you get
Points towards local shopping vouchers for participating in annual health checkups.
What it actually costs you
Registration via the official app.
Common gotcha
Points expire at the end of the fiscal year.
Hyogo兵庫県

Hyogo offers a unique blend of Kobe's tech-startup incentives and regional subsidies for digital nomads looking to balance high-tech work with a lower cost of living than Tokyo.

Scaling my tech startup in Kobe

Kobe Global Startup Gateway

神戸グローバルスタートアップゲートウェイ

municipal · Kobe City Government

Who qualifies
Early-stage tech startups based in or moving to Kobe.
What you get
Subsidized office space, mentoring, and access to local venture capital networks.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, pitch deck, and application for the selection program.
Common gotcha
High competition; you must demonstrate how your tech benefits the local Kobe economy.

Hyogo Prefecture Innovation Subsidy

兵庫県イノベーション補助金

state · Hyogo Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
SMEs and startups developing new digital products or blockchain solutions in Hyogo.
What you get
Partial reimbursement for R&D costs and hardware procurement.
What it actually costs you
Strict accounting records and quarterly progress reports.
Common gotcha
Reimbursement-based, so you must have the cash flow to cover costs upfront.

Kobe Tech Talent Matching Program

神戸テック人材マッチング

municipal · Kobe City Industrial Promotion Foundation

Who qualifies
Developers and engineers looking for local contract work or full-time roles in Kobe.
What you get
Direct introductions to local firms and networking events.
What it actually costs you
Registration on the portal and a professional resume in Japanese.
Common gotcha
Requires a decent level of Japanese business fluency for most placements.

Hyogo DX Promotion Grant

兵庫県DX推進補助金

state · Hyogo Prefecture

Who qualifies
Businesses implementing digital solutions to improve operational efficiency.
What you get
Financial aid for software licensing and system integration.
What it actually costs you
Submission of a digital transformation plan and post-implementation audit.
Common gotcha
Must be a registered business entity within the prefecture.

Living in Hyogo as a developer

Kobe Remote Work Relocation Subsidy

神戸市移住支援金

municipal · Kobe City

Who qualifies
Individuals moving to Kobe from the Tokyo 23 wards for remote work.
What you get
One-time cash payment of up to 1,000,000 JPY.
What it actually costs you
Proof of previous residency in Tokyo and proof of current employment.
Common gotcha
You must stay in Kobe for at least 5 years to avoid repayment.

Hyogo Prefecture Childcare Support Program

兵庫県子育て支援

state · Hyogo Prefecture

Who qualifies
Families with children living in the prefecture.
What you get
Subsidized daycare costs and free medical checkups for children.
What it actually costs you
Resident registration at your local ward office.
Common gotcha
Income caps apply for certain additional benefits.

Kobe City Transport Commuter Pass

神戸市交通局通勤定期券

municipal · Kobe City Transportation Bureau

Who qualifies
Residents commuting within Kobe city limits.
What you get
Discounted monthly passes for subway and bus lines.
What it actually costs you
IC card purchase and proof of address.
Common gotcha
Does not apply to JR lines, only municipal transport.
Nara奈良県

Nara offers unique tax incentives and incubation support for tech startups looking to leverage blockchain for cultural heritage preservation and tourism.

Scaling my blockchain startup

Nara Prefecture Startup Incubation Grant

奈良県スタートアップ創出補助金

state · Nara Prefectural Government, Industrial Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Early-stage tech startups registered in Nara with a focus on digital transformation.
What you get
Up to ¥2,000,000 for R&D and cloud infrastructure costs.
What it actually costs you
Business plan, pitch deck, and 3 months of financial reporting.
Common gotcha
You must maintain your registered office in Nara for at least 3 years.

Nara Digital Innovation Sandbox

奈良県デジタルイノベーションサンドボックス

state · Nara Digital Strategy Office

Who qualifies
Developers testing blockchain-based solutions for local tourism or heritage.
What you get
Regulatory waivers and access to municipal data sets for pilot testing.
What it actually costs you
Application proposal and compliance audit.
Common gotcha
The sandbox environment is strictly for testing; commercial deployment requires a separate license.

Nara Tech Talent Recruitment Credit

奈良県高度IT人材雇用促進税制

state · Nara Prefectural Tax Bureau

Who qualifies
Companies hiring blockchain developers or specialized IT staff in Nara.
What you get
Corporate tax deduction of 15% on salary expenses for qualifying new hires.
What it actually costs you
Proof of employment contracts and technical certification documents.
Common gotcha
The hire must be a resident of Nara Prefecture for at least 6 months.

Nara Remote Work Hub Voucher

奈良県テレワーク拠点利用補助

state · Nara Prefectural Commerce Department

Who qualifies
Freelance developers working in Nara-based co-working spaces.
What you get
50% reimbursement on monthly desk rental fees up to ¥30,000.
What it actually costs you
Monthly receipts and proof of residency.
Common gotcha
Only specific government-approved co-working spaces are eligible.

Living and working in the ancient capital

Nara Young Professional Housing Support

奈良県若年層住宅支援金

state · Nara Prefectural Housing Division

Who qualifies
Professionals under 35 moving to Nara City or surrounding districts.
What you get
¥50,000 one-time moving allowance and 10% rent subsidy for 12 months.
What it actually costs you
Lease agreement and proof of local employment.
Common gotcha
Must be a first-time resident of the prefecture.

Nara Inter-city Commuter Support

奈良県通勤交通費補助

state · Nara Prefectural Transport Bureau

Who qualifies
Residents commuting to tech hubs outside Nara (e.g., Osaka/Kyoto).
What you get
Partial reimbursement of long-distance train pass costs.
What it actually costs you
Commuter pass receipts and employer verification.
Common gotcha
Only applicable if the commute exceeds 45 minutes one way.
Wakayama和歌山県

Wakayama offers unique incentives for tech talent to relocate to its scenic coastal regions, balancing high-speed remote work infrastructure with rural lifestyle subsidies.

Setting up my remote dev hub

Wakayama Prefecture Telework Promotion Subsidy

和歌山県テレワーク導入支援補助金

state · Wakayama Prefectural Government, Department of Commerce and Industry

Who qualifies
Freelance developers or small tech firms relocating to or operating in designated rural zones within Wakayama.
What you get
Up to 500,000 JPY to cover high-speed internet installation and ergonomic office equipment.
What it actually costs you
Proof of residency in the target zone and receipts for all hardware purchases.
Common gotcha
Requires a minimum 2-year commitment to stay in the municipality to avoid repayment clauses.

Akiya (Vacant House) Bank Subsidy

和歌山県空き家バンク

state · Wakayama Prefectural Housing Division

Who qualifies
Individuals moving to Wakayama who purchase or rent a registered vacant property.
What you get
Subsidies for renovation costs up to 1,000,000 JPY for home office conversion.
What it actually costs you
Application through the municipal office; requires local government inspection of the property.
Common gotcha
Properties must be listed on the official prefecture 'Akiya Bank' portal to qualify.

Wakayama Startup Visa Program

和歌山県スタートアップビザ

state · Wakayama Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Foreign blockchain developers planning to launch a tech startup in Wakayama.
What you get
6-month residency permit to prepare for business operations without initial capital requirements.
What it actually costs you
Submission of a detailed business plan and proof of financial solvency.
Common gotcha
You must transition to a standard Business Manager visa before the 6 months expire.

Koyasan Remote Work Space Access

高野山リモートワークスペース支援

municipal · Koya Town Office

Who qualifies
Registered digital nomads working in the Koyasan area.
What you get
Discounted access to high-speed fiber-optic co-working spaces in historic temple surroundings.
What it actually costs you
Monthly membership fee of 5,000 JPY; valid ID required.
Common gotcha
Space is limited; booking via the municipal portal is mandatory during peak tourist seasons.

Living the local life

Wakayama Child-Rearing Support Card

和歌山県子育て支援パスポート

state · Wakayama Prefectural Welfare Department

Who qualifies
Parents with children under 18 living in Wakayama.
What you get
Discounts at local supermarkets, pharmacies, and family-friendly restaurants.
What it actually costs you
Digital or physical card issued upon registration at the municipal office.
Common gotcha
Must show the card at the register before payment; cannot be applied retroactively.

Wakayama Electric Railway Commuter Discount

和歌山電鐵通勤割引

private · Wakayama Electric Railway Co., Ltd.

Who qualifies
Residents commuting to work in Wakayama city.
What you get
15% discount on monthly commuter passes for specific routes.
What it actually costs you
Proof of employment and residency address.
Common gotcha
Only valid for the specific route registered; does not cover JR lines.
Tottori鳥取県

Tottori offers unique relocation incentives and remote work infrastructure support for tech professionals looking to escape the Tokyo grind while maintaining a high quality of life.

Moving to and working from Tottori

Tottori Telework Promotion Subsidy

鳥取県テレワーク導入支援補助金

state · Tottori Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Remote workers or IT companies establishing a satellite office in Tottori.
What you get
Up to 500,000 JPY for office equipment and high-speed internet installation costs.
What it actually costs you
Requires a business plan and proof of lease in Tottori; 4-6 weeks processing.
Common gotcha
You must prove you are not just a tourist; residency registration is required.

Tottori Migration Support Grant

鳥取県移住支援金

state · Tottori Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Individuals moving from the Tokyo 23-ward area to Tottori for remote work.
What you get
Up to 1,000,000 JPY for households or 600,000 JPY for individuals.
What it actually costs you
Must have lived in Tokyo for at least 5 years; requires proof of employment.
Common gotcha
You must stay in Tottori for at least 5 years or face partial repayment.

Tottori Coworking Space Voucher

鳥取県コワーキングスペース利用券

state · Tottori Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Freelance developers registered as Tottori residents.
What you get
Monthly discount vouchers covering 50% of desk rental fees at approved hubs.
What it actually costs you
Application via the prefectural portal; monthly usage reporting required.
Common gotcha
Only valid at specific government-vetted spaces.

Tottori Tech Startup Low-Interest Loan

鳥取県スタートアップ融資制度

state · Tottori Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Tech startups incorporated in Tottori with a focus on digital innovation.
What you get
Loans up to 10 million JPY at interest rates below 1%.
What it actually costs you
Requires a detailed pitch deck and financial projections; 2-3 months review.
Common gotcha
The bank will require a local guarantor or collateral.

Living the Tottori life

Tottori Child-Rearing Support Card

鳥取県子育て応援パスポート

state · Tottori Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Parents with children under 18 living in Tottori.
What you get
Discounts at local supermarkets, pharmacies, and restaurants.
What it actually costs you
Free; register at your local city office.
Common gotcha
Must show the digital pass on your phone at checkout.

Tottori Empty House Renovation Subsidy

鳥取県空き家改修補助金

state · Tottori Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
New residents renovating an 'akiya' (vacant house) for primary residence.
What you get
Up to 500,000 JPY for structural or energy-efficiency upgrades.
What it actually costs you
Requires building permits and contractor quotes.
Common gotcha
Does not apply to cosmetic interior decoration.

Tottori Rural Transport Subsidy

鳥取県交通費助成

state · Tottori Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Residents in rural Tottori commuting to tech hubs.
What you get
Monthly stipend for fuel or public transport costs.
What it actually costs you
Monthly submission of travel logs.
Common gotcha
Only for commutes exceeding 10km.
Shimane島根県

Shimane offers unique incentives for IT professionals and remote workers seeking a high quality of life with lower costs compared to Tokyo, including specific relocation and startup support.

Making the move to Shimane

Shimane Prefecture Migration Support Grant

島根県移住支援金

state · Shimane Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Individuals moving from the Tokyo metropolitan area to Shimane for full-time employment or remote work.
What you get
Up to 1,000,000 JPY as a one-time relocation grant.
What it actually costs you
Proof of previous residency in Tokyo and current employment contract in Shimane; 2-3 months processing.
Common gotcha
You must have lived in the Tokyo 23 wards for at least 5 years prior to the move to qualify.

Shimane Remote Work Environment Improvement Subsidy

島根県テレワーク環境整備補助金

state · Shimane Department of Commerce and Industry

Who qualifies
Freelancers or remote employees living in Shimane setting up a home office.
What you get
Reimbursement of up to 50% of costs for high-speed internet setup and ergonomic office furniture.
What it actually costs you
Receipts for all equipment; must be a registered resident of a Shimane municipality.
Common gotcha
The subsidy is often capped per fiscal year and runs on a first-come, first-served basis.

Building my tech stack here

Shimane Startup Business Support Program

島根県創業支援事業

state · Shimane Industrial Promotion Foundation

Who qualifies
Entrepreneurs launching tech-based startups within Shimane prefecture.
What you get
Access to low-interest loans and specialized mentoring from local tech industry veterans.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan and pitch deck; requires local office registration.
Common gotcha
The mentoring is primarily conducted in Japanese, which can be a barrier for non-native speakers.

Matsue IT Business Collaboration Grant

松江市IT産業振興補助金

municipal · Matsue City Hall

Who qualifies
IT companies or developers collaborating on local digital transformation projects.
What you get
Financial support for joint R&D projects involving local businesses.
What it actually costs you
Partnership agreement with a local Shimane-based entity.
Common gotcha
Projects must demonstrate a direct benefit to the local economy or community.
Okayama岡山県

Okayama offers a unique blend of industrial innovation and tech-friendly subsidies for developers looking to build decentralized solutions outside the Tokyo bubble.

Scaling my dev projects

Okayama Prefecture IT Business Promotion Subsidy

岡山県IT産業振興補助金

state · Okayama Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Startups and developers establishing a base in Okayama prefecture.
What you get
Up to 1/2 of expenses for office setup and R&D, capped at 2 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, tax residency proof, and 3-month review period.
Common gotcha
Requires physical presence in the prefecture; virtual offices are generally disqualified.

Okayama Innovation Hub Membership

岡山イノベーションハブ

state · Okayama Industrial Promotion Foundation

Who qualifies
Tech professionals and blockchain developers working on local solutions.
What you get
Access to high-speed fiber, co-working space, and networking with local manufacturing firms.
What it actually costs you
Monthly membership fee of 5,000 JPY and a short interview.
Common gotcha
The space is geared towards B2B; you must demonstrate how your code benefits local industry.

Okayama DX Promotion Grant

岡山県DX推進事業費補助金

state · Okayama Prefecture Digital Transformation Division

Who qualifies
Developers creating digital tools for local SMEs.
What you get
Grants covering 50% of development costs for automation or blockchain-based supply chain tools.
What it actually costs you
Quarterly progress reports and final audit of the software implementation.
Common gotcha
The grant is reimbursement-based, so you need cash flow to cover the initial costs.

Okayama Remote Work Relocation Incentive

岡山県移住支援金

state · Okayama Prefecture Migration Center

Who qualifies
IT professionals moving from the Tokyo metropolitan area to Okayama.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY for relocation expenses and settling in.
What it actually costs you
Proof of previous employment in Tokyo and registration at the local city office.
Common gotcha
You must commit to living in the prefecture for at least 5 years.

Living in Okayama

Okayama Child-Rearing Support Card

おかやま子育て家庭応援カード

state · Okayama Prefecture

Who qualifies
Families with children under 18 living in Okayama.
What you get
Discounts at participating local retailers, restaurants, and museums.
What it actually costs you
Application at the local municipal office; no fee.
Common gotcha
Must be shown at the time of payment; cannot be applied retroactively.

Okayama Prefectural Housing Loan Interest Subsidy

岡山県住宅ローン利子補給制度

state · Okayama Housing Corporation

Who qualifies
First-time homeowners building or buying an energy-efficient home in the prefecture.
What you get
Interest rate reduction of 0.5% for the first 5 years of the loan.
What it actually costs you
Energy efficiency certificates and proof of income.
Common gotcha
Only applies to homes meeting specific seismic and insulation standards.

Okayama Prefectural Health Promotion Subsidy

岡山県健康づくり推進事業

state · Okayama Health Department

Who qualifies
Residents participating in local walking or health-tracking challenges.
What you get
Points convertible to local shopping vouchers worth 5,000 JPY annually.
What it actually costs you
Download the official app and log daily steps.
Common gotcha
Points expire at the end of the fiscal year (March 31).
Hiroshima広島県

Hiroshima offers a unique blend of high-tech manufacturing subsidies and digital transformation grants specifically designed to attract blockchain and AI talent to the Chugoku region.

Scaling my dev business

Hiroshima Prefecture Digital Transformation Promotion Subsidy

広島県デジタル技術活用促進補助金

state · Hiroshima Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Small to medium tech businesses implementing blockchain or AI solutions.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for R&D and implementation costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local office, 3-6 months review.
Common gotcha
Requires proof that the technology improves local industrial efficiency.

Hiroshima Regulatory Sandbox Program

広島県規制サンドボックス

state · Hiroshima Innovation Promotion Department

Who qualifies
Startups testing blockchain-based fintech or supply chain solutions.
What you get
Exemption from certain prefectural regulations to pilot new tech.
What it actually costs you
Application proposal, safety compliance audit, legal review.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific prefectural ordinances, not national laws.

Hiroshima Innovation Venture Fund

広島イノベーションベンチャーファンド

state · Hiroshima Venture Capital

Who qualifies
Early-stage tech startups based in Hiroshima prefecture.
What you get
Equity investment or low-interest debt financing.
What it actually costs you
Extensive due diligence, pitch deck, financial statements.
Common gotcha
They prioritize companies that partner with local manufacturing firms.

Hiroshima Remote Work Hub Subsidy

広島県テレワーク拠点支援補助金

state · Hiroshima Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Freelance developers or small teams renting space in designated hub zones.
What you get
50% reimbursement on monthly desk rental fees.
What it actually costs you
Receipts for 6 months, proof of residency.
Common gotcha
Only valid for specific registered coworking spaces in the prefecture.

Living and working in Hiroshima

Hiroshima Tech Talent Relocation Grant

広島県移住支援金

state · Hiroshima Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
IT professionals moving to Hiroshima from Tokyo or other major metros.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY for relocation expenses.
What it actually costs you
Proof of employment in Hiroshima, proof of previous residence.
Common gotcha
You must stay employed in the prefecture for at least 5 years.

Hiroshima Prefectural Child-Rearing Subsidy

広島県子育て支援補助金

state · Hiroshima Prefectural Welfare Bureau

Who qualifies
Working parents living in Hiroshima prefecture.
What you get
Monthly cash benefit for childcare costs beyond national standards.
What it actually costs you
Income tax records, family registry (Koseki).
Common gotcha
Income caps apply based on the previous year's earnings.

Hiroshima Tech Business Tax Credit

広島県法人税軽減措置

state · Hiroshima Prefectural Tax Office

Who qualifies
Tech companies with R&D departments in Hiroshima.
What you get
Reduced prefectural corporate tax rate for 3 years.
What it actually costs you
Annual tax filing with specific R&D expenditure reports.
Common gotcha
Must maintain a minimum number of local full-time hires.
Yamaguchi山口県

Yamaguchi offers a unique blend of industrial tech incentives and rural lifestyle support, perfect for a blockchain developer looking to balance high-tech remote work with a lower cost of living.

Scaling my tech startup and innovation

Yamaguchi Startup Support Subsidy

山口県スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Yamaguchi Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Startups registered in Yamaguchi working on digital transformation or blockchain.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for R&D and office equipment costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, tax certificates, and 6 months of reporting.
Common gotcha
Must prove your business model creates local employment opportunities.

Yamaguchi DX Promotion Grant

山口県DX推進事業費補助金

state · Yamaguchi Industrial Promotion Foundation

Who qualifies
SMEs and tech freelancers collaborating with local traditional industries.
What you get
Subsidies covering 50% of software development costs.
What it actually costs you
Application form, proof of partnership with a local firm.
Common gotcha
The project must be completed within the fiscal year.

Yamaguchi Tech Hub Rental Subsidy

山口県IT拠点入居支援

municipal

Who qualifies
IT developers moving their base of operations to designated Yamaguchi tech hubs.
What you get
30% reduction in office rent for up to 2 years.
What it actually costs you
Lease agreement, proof of business registration in Yamaguchi.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific buildings designated by the city.

Yamaguchi Innovation Network Membership

山口県イノベーションネットワーク

state

Who qualifies
Tech professionals looking for networking and venture capital connections.
What you get
Access to exclusive pitch events and local government project tenders.
What it actually costs you
Free, but requires an interview/screening process.
Common gotcha
Events are often held in Japanese only.

Settling into the Yamaguchi lifestyle

Yamaguchi Remote Work Relocation Grant

山口県移住支援金

state · Yamaguchi Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Individuals moving from Tokyo/Osaka to Yamaguchi to continue remote work.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY for relocation expenses.
What it actually costs you
Proof of previous residency and current remote work contract.
Common gotcha
You must commit to living in the prefecture for at least 5 years.

Yamaguchi Child-rearing Support Card

やまぐち子育て応援パスポート

state

Who qualifies
Parents with children under 18 living in Yamaguchi.
What you get
Discounts at local grocery stores, pharmacies, and family restaurants.
What it actually costs you
Simple online registration.
Common gotcha
Must show the digital card at the register before payment.

Yamaguchi Rural Housing Renovation Subsidy

山口県空き家改修補助金

municipal

Who qualifies
New residents buying and renovating older houses in rural Yamaguchi.
What you get
Up to 500,000 JPY for renovation costs.
What it actually costs you
Building permit, renovation quote from local contractor.
Common gotcha
Must use local Yamaguchi-based contractors.

Yamaguchi Medical Expense Subsidy for Children

山口県子ども医療費助成

state

Who qualifies
Families with children up to junior high school age.
What you get
Covers out-of-pocket medical expenses at clinics.
What it actually costs you
Application at your local city hall.
Common gotcha
Does not cover non-medical costs like hospital meals.
Tokushima徳島県

Tokushima is a hidden gem for remote tech talent, offering unique 'Satellite Office' incentives and a high quality of life for developers looking to escape the Tokyo grind.

Setting up my remote office

Tokushima Satellite Office Attraction Subsidy

徳島県サテライトオフィス誘致補助金

state · Tokushima Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
IT companies or freelancers establishing a satellite office in designated rural areas of Tokushima.
What you get
Financial support for office renovation costs and high-speed internet installation expenses.
What it actually costs you
Business plan submission and proof of local lease agreement.
Common gotcha
Requires a minimum headcount or commitment to local hiring in some municipalities.

Tokushima Telework Promotion Grant

徳島県テレワーク導入支援事業

state · Tokushima Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Freelance blockchain developers or small tech firms operating within the prefecture.
What you get
Reimbursement for specialized hardware like high-end monitors, ergonomic chairs, and secure VPN routers.
What it actually costs you
Receipts for equipment and a brief report on productivity gains.
Common gotcha
Must be purchased through local vendors in some instances.

Making Tokushima home

Tokushima Migration and Settlement Support

徳島県移住支援金

state · Tokushima Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Individuals moving to Tokushima from the Tokyo 23-ward area to work in tech or start a business.
What you get
Cash grant of up to 1 million JPY for single applicants.
What it actually costs you
Proof of previous residency in Tokyo and current employment status in Tokushima.
Common gotcha
You must stay in the prefecture for at least 5 years or risk repayment.

Tokushima Startup Low-Interest Loan

徳島県創業支援融資

state · Tokushima Credit Guarantee Association

Who qualifies
New entrepreneurs setting up tech-focused businesses in the prefecture.
What you get
Low-interest business loans with extended repayment terms.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business model and credit check.
Common gotcha
Requires a local guarantor or collateral in some cases.
Kagawa香川県

Kagawa offers a unique blend of affordable living and a burgeoning digital innovation scene, perfect for a developer looking to balance remote work with a high quality of life.

Leveling up my dev career

Kagawa Prefecture Startup Support Subsidy

香川県スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Kagawa Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Early-stage tech startups based in Kagawa with innovative business models.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for business development and equipment costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local office registration, and 1/3 matching funds.
Common gotcha
The application window is very short, usually only open for one month in the spring.

Kagawa DX Promotion Grant

香川県DX推進事業費補助金

state · Kagawa Industry Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Local SMEs or freelancers implementing new digital solutions.
What you get
Reimbursement of 50% of costs for cloud infrastructure or software integration.
What it actually costs you
Invoices and project completion report; requires pre-approval before starting work.
Common gotcha
Doesn't cover hardware like laptops, only software and cloud services.

Takamatsu City Remote Work Relocation Incentive

高松市移住支援金

municipal · Takamatsu City Hall

Who qualifies
Professionals moving from Tokyo/Osaka to Takamatsu to work remotely.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY for relocation and housing assistance.
What it actually costs you
Proof of previous employment in a major metro and current residency in Takamatsu.
Common gotcha
You must stay in the city for at least 5 years or you may have to pay it back.

Kagawa Tech Community Workspace Access

香川県コワーキングスペース利用支援

state · Kagawa Industrial Promotion Bureau

Who qualifies
Registered freelancers and remote developers in Kagawa.
What you get
Discounted monthly passes for designated co-working spaces in Takamatsu.
What it actually costs you
Registration fee and monthly usage logs.
Common gotcha
Only valid at state-affiliated spaces, not private cafes.

Living well in the Seto Inland Sea

Kagawa Child Medical Expense Subsidy

香川県子ども医療費助成制度

state · Kagawa Prefectural Welfare Department

Who qualifies
Parents of children up to junior high school age residing in Kagawa.
What you get
Full coverage of out-of-pocket medical expenses for children.
What it actually costs you
Application at the municipal office; requires a specific medical card.
Common gotcha
You must present the card at every visit, or you get charged and have to request a refund later.

Kagawa Housing Renovation Grant

香川県住宅リフォーム支援事業

state · Kagawa Prefectural Housing Bureau

Who qualifies
Homeowners renovating older properties for energy efficiency.
What you get
Up to 300,000 JPY for eco-friendly upgrades.
What it actually costs you
Contractor quotes and building permits.
Common gotcha
Must use a local Kagawa-based contractor to qualify.

Takamatsu Municipal Bicycle Parking Discount

高松市自転車駐車場利用料減免

municipal · Takamatsu City Transport Division

Who qualifies
Residents commuting via bicycle to Takamatsu station.
What you get
Reduced monthly parking fees for secure bicycle storage.
What it actually costs you
Proof of residency and bicycle registration.
Common gotcha
Limited spots; you need to apply during the annual renewal window.
Ehime愛媛県

Ehime offers a unique blend of tech-forward incentives for digital nomads and blockchain developers looking to escape the Tokyo grind while benefiting from local innovation grants.

Building my startup in Matsuyama

Ehime Startup Promotion Subsidy

愛媛県スタートアップ創出支援事業

state · Ehime Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Startups registered in Ehime working on digital transformation or blockchain.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for R&D and office setup costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, tax records, and 3-year growth projection.
Common gotcha
Requires a physical office presence in Ehime; virtual offices are often disqualified.

Matsuyama City Innovation Lab Access

松山市イノベーションラボ

municipal · Matsuyama City Industry Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Freelance developers and tech founders living in Matsuyama.
What you get
Subsidized high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and networking with local SMEs.
What it actually costs you
Monthly membership fee of 5,000 JPY; requires proof of residency.
Common gotcha
Limited desk space; waitlists are common during peak fiscal quarters.

Ehime DX Promotion Grant

愛媛県DX推進事業費補助金

state · Ehime Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Tech developers partnering with local Ehime businesses to implement blockchain or AI solutions.
What you get
Reimbursement of up to 50% of project costs, capped at 1 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Must have a signed contract with an Ehime-based company.
Common gotcha
The grant is paid after project completion, requiring you to front the capital.

Ehime Tech Talent Matching Program

愛媛県IT人材マッチング支援

state · Ehime Industrial Promotion Foundation

Who qualifies
Developers looking for contract work with local Ehime manufacturing firms.
What you get
Access to a private portal of local companies seeking blockchain/IT expertise.
What it actually costs you
Free registration; requires a professional portfolio review.
Common gotcha
Most local firms prefer face-to-face meetings in Matsuyama.

Making life easier in the prefecture

Ehime Remote Worker Housing Subsidy

愛媛県移住者住宅支援

state · Ehime Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Remote developers moving to Ehime from outside the prefecture.
What you get
Monthly rent subsidy of 20,000 JPY for up to 2 years.
What it actually costs you
Proof of remote employment contract and municipal tax registration.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific designated municipalities within the prefecture.

Ehime Child Medical Expense Subsidy

愛媛県子ども医療費助成

state · Ehime Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Parents living in Ehime with children under 18.
What you get
Full coverage of out-of-pocket medical expenses at local clinics.
What it actually costs you
Application at the local city hall; requires health insurance card.
Common gotcha
Income caps apply for higher-earning developer households.

Ehime Iyo Railway Commuter Discount

伊予鉄通勤割引

private · Iyo Railway Co., Ltd.

Who qualifies
Regular commuters using Iyo Railway services in Matsuyama.
What you get
Up to 30% discount on monthly commuter passes.
What it actually costs you
Employer-issued proof of employment.
Common gotcha
Must be renewed every 6 months at major stations.

Ehime Museum and Culture Pass

愛媛県文化施設パス

state · Ehime Prefectural Board of Education

Who qualifies
Residents of Ehime.
What you get
Free or discounted entry to major prefectural museums and art galleries.
What it actually costs you
Annual fee of 1,000 JPY; requires residence card.
Common gotcha
Does not cover special temporary exhibitions.
Kochi高知県

Kochi offers a unique blend of traditional rural lifestyle and a burgeoning tech-friendly ecosystem for remote developers seeking high quality of life.

Scaling my dev projects

Kochi Prefecture Startup Innovation Grant

高知県スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Kochi Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Kochi with a focus on digital transformation.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for R&D and infrastructure costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, tax records, and 3-month review process.
Common gotcha
Must demonstrate that the project benefits the local Kochi economy.

Kochi Remote Work Infrastructure Subsidy

高知県テレワーク環境整備補助金

state · Kochi Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Freelance developers residing in Kochi working for companies outside the prefecture.
What you get
Reimbursement of up to 50% of high-speed internet and ergonomic office equipment costs.
What it actually costs you
Receipts for equipment and proof of remote employment contract.
Common gotcha
Requires proof of residency in Kochi for at least 6 months.

Kochi Digital Nomad Residency Support

高知県デジタルノマド誘致支援

state · Kochi Tourism and Commerce Bureau

Who qualifies
Foreign or domestic developers moving to Kochi for long-term remote work.
What you get
Subsidized rent for designated co-working/co-living spaces for 3 months.
What it actually costs you
Application through the local municipal office.
Common gotcha
Limited to specific partner co-working spaces in Kochi city.

Kochi Tech Talent Matching Program

高知県IT人材マッチング事業

state · Kochi Prefectural Labor Bureau

Who qualifies
Developers looking for local consultancy projects or collaborative partnerships.
What you get
Access to a private network of local manufacturing firms needing blockchain/IoT integration.
What it actually costs you
Registration of professional portfolio and CV.
Common gotcha
Most meetings are conducted in Japanese; fluency is highly preferred.

Living well in the countryside

Kochi Rural Relocation Housing Incentive

高知県移住者住宅支援制度

state · Kochi Prefectural Housing Division

Who qualifies
Individuals moving from urban areas to rural Kochi municipalities.
What you get
Cash grant of 500,000 JPY for home renovation or rental deposit.
What it actually costs you
Proof of permanent residency change and local tax registration.
Common gotcha
Must commit to living in the property for at least 3 years.

Kochi Youth Health Subsidy

高知県若年層医療費助成

state · Kochi Health and Welfare Department

Who qualifies
Residents under 35 living in designated depopulated areas of Kochi.
What you get
Full coverage of out-of-pocket medical expenses not covered by national insurance.
What it actually costs you
Annual registration at the local town hall.
Common gotcha
Only applies to clinics within the specific municipality.

Kochi Prefectural Transport Pass

高知県交通割引パス

state · Kochi Transport Association

Who qualifies
Full-time residents of Kochi prefecture.
What you get
30% discount on regional bus and ferry services.
What it actually costs you
Annual fee of 2,000 JPY for the pass card.
Common gotcha
Does not apply to JR train lines, only local bus networks.
Fukuoka福岡県

Fukuoka is Japan's designated National Strategic Special Zone for startups, offering unique tax breaks and visa support for tech talent.

Scaling my tech startup in Fukuoka

Fukuoka City Startup Visa

福岡市スタートアップビザ

municipal · Fukuoka City Government

Who qualifies
Foreign entrepreneurs planning to launch a business in Fukuoka City.
What you get
A 6-month residency permit to prepare for business launch without initial capital requirements.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan submission, interview with city officials, and proof of residence.
Common gotcha
You must prove you have the funds to support yourself during the 6-month period.

Fukuoka Growth Next

福岡グロースネクスト

municipal · Fukuoka City / Private Partnership

Who qualifies
Early-stage tech startups and blockchain developers.
What you get
Subsidized co-working space, mentorship, and access to a network of local investors.
What it actually costs you
Monthly desk fee (approx. 15,000-30,000 JPY) and competitive application process.
Common gotcha
High competition for private office spaces; hot-desking is easier to secure.

Special Zone Corporate Tax Reduction

国家戦略特区法人税減税

state · Fukuoka Prefecture

Who qualifies
Companies registered within the Fukuoka Strategic Special Zone.
What you get
Reduced corporate tax rates for qualifying innovative businesses.
What it actually costs you
Requires certification of the business plan by the Cabinet Office.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific industries designated under the Special Zone act.

Living as a developer in Fukuoka

Fukuoka International Exchange Center Support

福岡よかトピア国際交流財団

state · Fukuoka Prefecture

Who qualifies
Foreign residents living in Fukuoka Prefecture.
What you get
Free legal, tax, and daily life consultation services in multiple languages.
What it actually costs you
Appointment booking required; free of charge.
Common gotcha
Consultations are for guidance; they do not act as your legal representative.

Fukuoka City Child Medical Expense Subsidy

福岡市こども医療費助成

municipal · Fukuoka City

Who qualifies
Residents with children up to junior high school age.
What you get
Full or partial coverage of medical expenses for children.
What it actually costs you
Application at the ward office; requires health insurance card.
Common gotcha
You must present the subsidy card at the clinic every time.
Saga佐賀県

Saga offers a unique blend of rural tranquility and aggressive digital infrastructure incentives, making it a hidden gem for remote-working tech professionals who want to escape the Tokyo grind.

Scaling my dev projects in Saga

Saga Prefecture Startup Promotion Subsidy

佐賀県スタートアップ創出支援事業

state · Saga Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Tech startups or individual developers establishing a base in Saga.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for office setup and equipment costs.
What it actually costs you
Business plan submission, tax residency in Saga, and 3 months of processing.
Common gotcha
The subsidy is reimbursement-based; you must spend the money first.

Saga Remote Work Relocation Grant

佐賀県移住支援金

state · Saga Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Professionals moving from the Tokyo metropolitan area to Saga for remote work.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY for relocation expenses.
What it actually costs you
Proof of previous employment in Tokyo and a minimum 5-year residency commitment.
Common gotcha
You must apply within 3 months of moving to the prefecture.

Saga Digital Innovation Lab Access

佐賀デジタルイノベーションラボ

state · Saga Industrial Promotion Organization

Who qualifies
Local tech developers and blockchain enthusiasts.
What you get
Free access to high-speed fiber internet, co-working space, and local business networking.
What it actually costs you
Registration fee of 5,000 JPY/year.
Common gotcha
Limited desk space; requires monthly booking in advance.

Saga Prefecture Tech Community Fund

佐賀県IT技術者交流基金

state · Saga Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Developers attending or organizing tech meetups in Saga.
What you get
Partial funding for venue rental and event marketing.
What it actually costs you
Event report and attendee list submission.
Common gotcha
Must have at least 10 attendees to qualify for funding.

Living well while building code

Saga Akiya (Vacant House) Bank

佐賀県空き家バンク

state · Saga Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Anyone looking to rent or buy affordable housing in rural Saga.
What you get
Access to heavily discounted housing, often with renovation subsidies.
What it actually costs you
Real estate agent fees and local municipal approval.
Common gotcha
Many houses require significant DIY renovation.

Saga Child Medical Expense Subsidy

佐賀県子ども医療費助成

state · Saga Municipalities

Who qualifies
Parents with children under 18 living in Saga.
What you get
Full or partial coverage of medical co-pays.
What it actually costs you
Annual income verification and local registration.
Common gotcha
Coverage limits vary slightly by specific city/town within Saga.

Saga Prefectural Commuter Pass Support

佐賀県公共交通利用促進事業

state · Saga Prefectural Transport Bureau

Who qualifies
Residents commuting to work via public bus or train.
What you get
20% discount on monthly commuter passes.
What it actually costs you
Proof of employment and residency.
Common gotcha
Only valid for specific regional bus lines.

Saga Local Food Support Voucher

佐賀県地産地消クーポン

state · Saga Agricultural Department

Who qualifies
All residents of Saga prefecture.
What you get
Quarterly vouchers worth 3,000 JPY for local farmers' markets.
What it actually costs you
Must be picked up at city hall or community center.
Common gotcha
Vouchers expire within 3 months of issuance.
Nagasaki長崎県

Nagasaki offers unique regional incentives for tech talent to revitalize its local economy, specifically targeting remote-working developers and startups in the digital space.

Building and Scaling My Tech Projects

Nagasaki Prefecture Startup Promotion Subsidy

長崎県スタートアップ創出支援事業

state · Nagasaki Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Tech startups or individual developers launching a new digital product within Nagasaki prefecture.
What you get
Up to 2,000,000 JPY in non-repayable grants for R&D and equipment.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of residency in Nagasaki, and quarterly progress reports.
Common gotcha
The grant is reimbursement-based; you must spend the money first and submit receipts.

Nagasaki Digital Hub Office Rental Discount

長崎デジタルハブオフィス賃料補助

state · Nagasaki City Industrial Promotion Division

Who qualifies
IT professionals and blockchain developers renting space in designated 'Digital Hub' zones.
What you get
50% reduction on monthly office rent for up to 24 months.
What it actually costs you
Must be a registered resident and maintain a local business address.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific buildings designated as 'Digital Hubs' by the city.

Nagasaki DX Promotion Grant

長崎県DX推進補助金

state · Nagasaki Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Developers creating solutions that help local Nagasaki SMEs digitize their operations.
What you get
Funding for software development costs up to 1,500,000 JPY.
What it actually costs you
Requires a partnership agreement with a local Nagasaki business.
Common gotcha
The project must demonstrate a clear impact on local business efficiency.

Nagasaki Blockchain Regulatory Sandbox

長崎県ブロックチェーン実証実験支援

state · Nagasaki Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Developers testing blockchain applications in local logistics or tourism sectors.
What you get
Access to local government data and regulatory waivers for pilot testing.
What it actually costs you
Rigorous application process and safety compliance documentation.
Common gotcha
Strict data privacy requirements must be met before testing begins.

Living and Working in Nagasaki

Nagasaki Remote Work Relocation Subsidy

長崎県移住支援金

state · Nagasaki Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
IT professionals moving to Nagasaki from Tokyo or other major urban centers.
What you get
One-time payment of up to 1,000,000 JPY for relocation expenses.
What it actually costs you
Must have lived in the Tokyo metropolitan area for at least 5 years prior to moving.
Common gotcha
You must commit to living in Nagasaki for at least 5 years or repay the grant.

Nagasaki Prefecture Medical Expense Subsidy

長崎県子ども医療費助成

state · Nagasaki Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Parents living in Nagasaki with children under 18.
What you get
Full coverage of out-of-pocket medical expenses for children.
What it actually costs you
Application at the local municipal office with resident card.
Common gotcha
Some municipalities have different income caps for full vs. partial coverage.

Nagasaki Public Transport Developer Pass

長崎交通通勤割引パス

municipal · Nagasaki City Transportation Bureau

Who qualifies
Freelance developers registered with a local co-working space.
What you get
30% discount on monthly tram and bus passes.
What it actually costs you
Proof of co-working space membership.
Common gotcha
Only valid for specific routes connecting residential and commercial zones.

Nagasaki Home Office Renovation Grant

長崎県住宅リフォーム補助金

state · Nagasaki Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Residents renovating a home to include a dedicated office/workspace.
What you get
Up to 500,000 JPY for construction and high-speed internet installation.
What it actually costs you
Must use local contractors registered in Nagasaki.
Common gotcha
Application must be approved before renovation work commences.
Kumamoto熊本県

Kumamoto offers specific regional tax incentives and digital transformation grants for tech talent and startups looking to build decentralized infrastructure outside of Tokyo.

Scaling my dev projects and startup

Kumamoto Prefecture Digital Transformation Promotion Subsidy

熊本県DX推進事業費補助金

state · Kumamoto Prefectural Government, Commerce and Industry Department

Who qualifies
Small and medium enterprises or tech freelancers registered in Kumamoto implementing new digital tools.
What you get
Covers up to 50% of implementation costs, capped at 1 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local residency, and receipts for software/hardware expenses.
Common gotcha
Must be applied for before the project starts; retroactive claims are rejected.

Kumamoto Startup Support Program

熊本県スタートアップ支援プログラム

state · Kumamoto Industry Promotion Foundation

Who qualifies
Early-stage founders based in Kumamoto working on innovative tech solutions.
What you get
Mentorship, office space subsidies, and access to local venture capital networks.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck submission and interview process.
Common gotcha
Highly competitive; requires a strong focus on regional impact.

Kumamoto Tech Talent Relocation Grant

熊本県IT人材移住支援金

state · Kumamoto Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
IT professionals moving to Kumamoto from outside the prefecture to work in local tech firms.
What you get
One-time payment of up to 600,000 JPY for relocation expenses.
What it actually costs you
Employment contract and proof of previous residency outside Kumamoto.
Common gotcha
You must stay employed in the prefecture for at least 3 years or face repayment.

Kumamoto Innovation Hub Access

熊本イノベーションハブ利用支援

state · Kumamoto City Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Developers and tech entrepreneurs needing co-working space.
What you get
Discounted access to high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and networking events.
What it actually costs you
Monthly membership fee, significantly reduced by state subsidy.
Common gotcha
Limited desk availability; requires advance booking via the portal.

Making life easier in Kumamoto

Kumamoto Young Professional Housing Subsidy

熊本県若年層住宅取得支援

state · Kumamoto Prefectural Housing Bureau

Who qualifies
Professionals under 40 purchasing their first home in Kumamoto.
What you get
Low-interest housing loans and tax deductions on property acquisition.
What it actually costs you
Proof of income and residency; standard loan application documents.
Common gotcha
Requires the property to meet specific earthquake-resistance standards.

Kumamoto Integrated Transport Discount

熊本県交通系ICカード割引

state · Kumamoto Transport Authority

Who qualifies
All residents using local buses and trams.
What you get
Automatic 10-15% discount on fares when using the local Kumamon IC card.
What it actually costs you
Initial card purchase fee of 500 JPY.
Common gotcha
Does not apply to JR train lines, only local transport.
Oita大分県

Oita offers a unique blend of tech-forward industrial incentives and a high quality of life for remote-working developers who want to escape the Tokyo grind.

Scaling my tech projects

Oita Prefecture Startup Support Subsidy

大分県スタートアップ支援事業

state · Oita Prefectural Government, Commerce and Industry Department

Who qualifies
Startups registered in Oita focusing on ICT, AI, or blockchain innovation.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for R&D and market expansion costs.
What it actually costs you
Business plan submission, pitch deck, and proof of local office registration.
Common gotcha
Requires a physical office presence in the prefecture, not just a virtual one.

Oita Digital Transformation Promotion Grant

大分県DX推進事業費補助金

state · Oita Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Local SMEs or tech developers partnering with local businesses to implement blockchain or cloud solutions.
What you get
Covers 50% of implementation costs up to 1 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Detailed project proposal and evidence of collaboration with a local entity.
Common gotcha
The grant is reimbursement-based, so you need the cash flow to pay upfront.

Oita Tech Hub Rental Subsidy

大分市オフィス賃料補助

municipal · Oita City Hall

Who qualifies
IT companies or freelance developers moving their base to Oita City.
What you get
30% reduction in monthly office rent for up to 24 months.
What it actually costs you
Lease agreement and proof of business activity.
Common gotcha
Limited to specific designated office zones in the city center.

Oita Innovation Lab Membership

大分イノベーションラボ

state · Oita Industry Creation Organization

Who qualifies
Tech professionals and entrepreneurs in Oita.
What you get
Access to co-working spaces, mentorship, and networking with local industrial giants.
What it actually costs you
Annual membership fee of 10,000 JPY.
Common gotcha
Events are often in Japanese only, requiring high-level language proficiency.

Making life easier here

Oita Migration Support Grant

大分県移住支援金

state · Oita Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Individuals moving to Oita from the Tokyo 23-ward area for remote work or local employment.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY for relocation expenses.
What it actually costs you
Proof of previous residency in Tokyo and current residency in Oita.
Common gotcha
You must stay in Oita for at least 5 years or risk paying it back.

Oita Onsen Wellness Pass

大分温泉ウェルネスパス

municipal · Beppu/Oita Tourism Board

Who qualifies
Residents of Oita prefecture.
What you get
Discounted access to municipal hot springs and wellness facilities.
What it actually costs you
Resident card (Juminhyo) registration.
Common gotcha
Does not apply to private luxury ryokan baths.

Oita Child Medical Expense Subsidy

大分県子ども医療費助成

state · Oita Prefecture

Who qualifies
Parents of children up to junior high school age residing in Oita.
What you get
Full coverage of out-of-pocket medical expenses for children.
What it actually costs you
Application at the local city office to receive the subsidy card.
Common gotcha
You must present the card at every clinic visit to avoid paying upfront.
Miyazaki宮崎県

Miyazaki offers unique regional tax incentives and digital infrastructure grants for tech professionals looking to build decentralized applications in a remote-friendly environment.

Scaling my dev projects

Miyazaki Prefecture Startup Support Subsidy

宮崎県スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Miyazaki Prefectural Government, Commerce and Industry Department

Who qualifies
Early-stage tech startups or individual developers registered in Miyazaki with a scalable digital product.
What you get
Up to 1,000,000 JPY for hardware procurement or cloud infrastructure costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local residency, and quarterly progress reports.
Common gotcha
The funding is reimbursement-based; you must pay upfront and submit receipts.

Miyazaki Digital Nomad Residency Grant

宮崎県デジタルノマド誘致助成金

state · Miyazaki Tourism and Regional Revitalization Bureau

Who qualifies
Remote blockchain developers moving their primary residence to Miyazaki for at least 6 months.
What you get
50,000 JPY monthly housing subsidy for the first year.
What it actually costs you
Proof of remote employment or freelance contract, and local tax registration.
Common gotcha
You must participate in at least two local community tech meetups per quarter.

Miyazaki Tech Innovation Hub Membership

宮崎県テックイノベーションハブ

state · Miyazaki Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Developers working on open-source or blockchain projects requiring high-speed fiber and collaborative space.
What you get
Free 24/7 access to dedicated desk space and high-end server testing environments.
What it actually costs you
Simple application form and a brief interview about your project goals.
Common gotcha
Space is limited; you must renew your access pass every 3 months.

Miyazaki Cloud Infrastructure Credit

宮崎県クラウド利用促進助成

state · Miyazaki IT Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Local developers needing AWS/GCP/Azure credits for DApp deployment.
What you get
Annual credit voucher worth 200,000 JPY for major cloud providers.
What it actually costs you
Submission of project architecture diagram and security compliance checklist.
Common gotcha
Credits expire at the end of the fiscal year (March 31).

Life in the prefecture

Miyazaki Prefectural Freelancer Health Screening

宮崎県フリーランス健康診断助成

state · Miyazaki Health and Welfare Department

Who qualifies
Freelance developers not covered by standard corporate health insurance.
What you get
Full coverage for annual comprehensive health checkups at designated clinics.
What it actually costs you
Proof of freelance income and local residency certificate.
Common gotcha
Must be used at specific partner hospitals within the prefecture.

Miyazaki Prefectural Transit Discount Card

宮崎県交通割引パス

state · Miyazaki Transportation Bureau

Who qualifies
Residents under 40 working in the tech sector.
What you get
30% discount on all local bus and regional train travel.
What it actually costs you
Application fee of 500 JPY and a digital photo.
Common gotcha
Does not apply to Shinkansen or long-distance express buses.
Kagoshima鹿児島県

Kagoshima offers unique incentives for tech talent to relocate to its scenic, volcanic landscape while fostering a growing digital nomad and remote-work ecosystem.

Setting up my tech life in Kagoshima

Kagoshima Remote Work Relocation Grant

鹿児島県テレワーク移住支援金

state · Kagoshima Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Remote workers moving from Tokyo or major urban centers to designated rural areas in Kagoshima.
What you get
Up to 1,000,000 JPY as a one-time relocation support payment.
What it actually costs you
Proof of remote employment contract and residency registration in the new municipality.
Common gotcha
You must stay in the municipality for at least 5 years or risk having to pay back the grant.

Kagoshima Startup Incubation Program

鹿児島県スタートアップ支援事業

state · Kagoshima Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Early-stage tech entrepreneurs building scalable digital solutions.
What you get
Access to subsidized office space and mentorship from local industry experts.
What it actually costs you
Submission of a business plan and a pitch deck in Japanese.
Common gotcha
The program is heavily focused on businesses that contribute to local tourism or agriculture.

Making the most of the local lifestyle

Kagoshima Onsen Passport

鹿児島温泉パスポート

municipal · Kagoshima City Tourism Association

Who qualifies
Residents of Kagoshima prefecture.
What you get
Discounted entry fees at over 50 public hot spring facilities.
What it actually costs you
Annual registration fee of 500 JPY.
Common gotcha
Some premium private onsens do not accept the passport on weekends.

Kagoshima City Transport Subsidy

鹿児島市交通費補助

municipal · Kagoshima City Transport Bureau

Who qualifies
Residents commuting to designated tech hubs via public transit.
What you get
30% rebate on monthly bus and tram passes.
What it actually costs you
Submission of proof of employment and monthly transit receipts.
Common gotcha
Only valid for the city-operated tram and bus lines.
Okinawa沖縄県

Okinawa offers unique tax incentives and remote-work infrastructure grants for tech professionals looking to build decentralized systems from a tropical hub.

Scaling my dev projects

Okinawa IT Innovation Promotion Grant

沖縄県ITイノベーション促進事業

state · Okinawa Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Tech startups and individual developers registered in Okinawa working on emerging tech.
What you get
Up to 50% of R&D costs covered for blockchain or AI-related software development.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local residency, and quarterly progress reports.
Common gotcha
The grant is reimbursement-based, so you need the initial capital to front the development costs.

Okinawa Special Free Trade Zone Tax Incentives

沖縄特別自由貿易地域税制優遇

state · Cabinet Office / Okinawa Prefecture

Who qualifies
Businesses operating within designated zones in Uruma or Naha.
What you get
Significant corporate tax deductions and exemptions on imported hardware for server infrastructure.
What it actually costs you
Must maintain a physical office within the zone and meet local hiring quotas.
Common gotcha
Strict zoning boundaries; ensure your co-working space is inside the official zone map.

Okinawa Remote Work Hub Subsidy

沖縄県テレワーク推進助成金

state · Okinawa Department of Commerce, Industry and Labor

Who qualifies
Freelance developers or small tech teams moving their base to Okinawa.
What you get
Financial support for high-speed internet installation and ergonomic office equipment.
What it actually costs you
Receipts for all equipment and a signed declaration of remote work status.
Common gotcha
Requires proof of a long-term lease agreement in Okinawa.

Naha City Startup Lab Membership

那覇市スタートアップラボ

municipal · Naha City Economic Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Local developers and blockchain enthusiasts.
What you get
Subsidized access to high-end co-working spaces, meeting rooms, and local networking events.
What it actually costs you
Small monthly membership fee and a project pitch to the lab manager.
Common gotcha
Limited desk space; waitlists are common during peak seasons.

Living as a dev in the islands

Okinawa Island Resident Transport Discount

沖縄県民交通割引

state · Okinawa Prefectural Transport Bureau

Who qualifies
Registered residents of Okinawa Prefecture.
What you get
Reduced fares on inter-island ferries and local bus lines.
What it actually costs you
Requires a resident card (Juminhyo) to apply for the discount pass.
Common gotcha
The discount card must be renewed annually at the local municipal office.

Okinawa Prefectural Youth Medical Subsidy

沖縄県子ども医療費助成制度

state · Okinawa Prefectural Health Department

Who qualifies
Residents under 30 with low-to-mid income levels.
What you get
Coverage for out-of-pocket medical expenses at local clinics.
What it actually costs you
Application form submitted to your local city hall.
Common gotcha
Does not cover cosmetic or non-essential dental procedures.