Japan hubs

Yoshiko

Investor

JapanJapanese (日本語)¥ JPY

Yoshiko is a savvy Tokyo-based investor navigating the complexities of Japanese tax-advantaged accounts and global market exposure. This hub tracks the essential national frameworks she uses to optimize her portfolio and manage her wealth efficiently.

Making my money work harder

Maximizing tax-free growth is the foundation of my long-term wealth strategy.

Nippon Individual Savings Account (NISA)

少額投資非課税制度

national · Financial Services Agency

Who qualifies
Residents of Japan aged 18 or older.
What you get
Tax exemption on capital gains and dividends for lifetime investments up to 18 million yen.
What it actually costs you
Requires a brokerage account; no annual fee, but check individual broker commissions.
Common gotcha
Losses in NISA accounts cannot be offset against gains in taxable accounts.

Individual Defined Contribution Pension (iDeCo)

個人型確定拠出年金

national · Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare

Who qualifies
Most residents aged 20 to 65.
What you get
Full tax deduction on contributions and tax-free growth until retirement.
What it actually costs you
Monthly management fees; funds are locked until age 60.
Common gotcha
You cannot withdraw the money early, even in emergencies.

Tsumitate NISA (Legacy/Transition)

つみたてNISA

national · Financial Services Agency

Who qualifies
Existing holders of Tsumitate NISA accounts.
What you get
Tax-free accumulation of long-term, low-cost investment trusts.
What it actually costs you
Strictly limited to FSA-approved investment products.
Common gotcha
Cannot be combined with the new NISA growth quota in the same way as before.

Specified Account System

特定口座

national · National Tax Agency

Who qualifies
Any investor using a Japanese brokerage.
What you get
Brokerage handles capital gains tax withholding automatically.
What it actually costs you
Requires choosing 'withholding' (gensen-choshu) to avoid tax filing.
Common gotcha
If you choose 'no withholding', you must file a tax return if gains exceed 200,000 yen.

Junior NISA (Legacy)

ジュニアNISA

national · Financial Services Agency

Who qualifies
Minors under 18 (program ended for new contributions).
What you get
Tax-free investment for children's future education.
What it actually costs you
Account must be managed by a parent or guardian.
Common gotcha
The program has ended; existing assets are now held in tax-free status until age 18.

Loss Carryforward Deduction

繰越控除

national · National Tax Agency

Who qualifies
Investors who realize capital losses.
What you get
Ability to carry forward losses for 3 years to offset future gains.
What it actually costs you
Requires filing a 'Kakutei Shinkoku' tax return every year.
Common gotcha
You must file the return even if you have no income that year to keep the carryforward active.

Managing my identity and taxes

Keeping my official records clean is essential for brokerage compliance and tax reporting.

Individual Number Card (My Number)

マイナンバーカード

national · Digital Agency

Who qualifies
All residents of Japan.
What you get
Unified ID for tax, social security, and brokerage KYC.
What it actually costs you
Free to apply; requires renewal every 5-10 years.
Common gotcha
Brokerages require this for all investment accounts now.

Myna Portal

マイナポータル

national · Digital Agency

Who qualifies
My Number card holders.
What you get
Access to tax records, insurance info, and pension status.
What it actually costs you
Requires card reader or smartphone with NFC.
Common gotcha
Interface can be confusing; requires digital certificate setup.

e-Tax Filing System

国税電子申告・納税システム

national · National Tax Agency

Who qualifies
Anyone required to file taxes.
What you get
Online filing of income tax returns.
What it actually costs you
Requires digital authentication.
Common gotcha
Browser compatibility issues are common.

Nenkin Net

ねんきんネット

national · Japan Pension Service

Who qualifies
National Pension contributors.
What you get
View pension contributions and projected benefits.
What it actually costs you
Requires registration with pension number.
Common gotcha
Data can take time to update after payments.

Furusato Nozei (Hometown Tax)

ふるさと納税

national · Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications

Who qualifies
Taxpayers in Japan.
What you get
Tax deduction for donations to municipalities in exchange for gifts.
What it actually costs you
2,000 yen processing fee.
Common gotcha
Don't exceed your annual deduction limit based on income.

Resident Tax Payment

住民税

national · Local Municipalities (National standard)

Who qualifies
All residents earning income.
What you get
Funds local services; calculated based on previous year income.
What it actually costs you
Usually deducted from salary or paid via invoice.
Common gotcha
If you leave Japan, you may owe the full year's tax.

Keeping my investments safe

Knowing who regulates my brokers and how to complain if things go wrong.

Japan Securities Dealers Association (JSDA) Consultation

日本証券業協会

national · JSDA

Who qualifies
Investors with grievances against brokers.
What you get
Mediation and dispute resolution services.
What it actually costs you
Free consultation.
Common gotcha
They only handle disputes with member firms.

FSA Financial Services User Consultation

金融庁金融サービス利用者相談室

national · Financial Services Agency

Who qualifies
Any financial consumer.
What you get
Official guidance on financial regulations and reporting fraud.
What it actually costs you
No cost.
Common gotcha
They provide guidance, not direct legal representation.

Japan Investor Protection Fund

日本投資者保護基金

national · JIPF

Who qualifies
Clients of bankrupt securities firms.
What you get
Compensation up to 10 million yen per person.
What it actually costs you
Automatic coverage for brokerage accounts.
Common gotcha
Does not cover investment losses, only firm insolvency.

Securities and Exchange Surveillance Commission

証券取引等監視委員会

national · Financial Services Agency

Who qualifies
Whistleblowers or victims of market manipulation.
What you get
Reporting channel for insider trading or market abuse.
What it actually costs you
Free reporting.
Common gotcha
They do not provide status updates on investigations.

Deposit Insurance Corporation of Japan

預金保険機構

national · DICJ

Who qualifies
Bank account holders.
What you get
Protection of deposits up to 10 million yen plus interest.
What it actually costs you
Automatic coverage.
Common gotcha
Foreign currency deposits are not covered.

Consumer Affairs Agency Hotline

消費者庁

national · Consumer Affairs Agency

Who qualifies
Victims of financial scams.
What you get
Consumer protection advice and scam alerts.
What it actually costs you
Free.
Common gotcha
Use the '188' hotline for immediate help.

Keeping my edge

Staying updated on market trends and financial regulations through official channels.

FSA Financial Literacy Portal

金融庁金融リテラシー

national · Financial Services Agency

Who qualifies
General public.
What you get
Educational materials on asset formation.
What it actually costs you
Free.
Common gotcha
Materials are quite academic.

JSDA Investor Education Program

日本証券業協会投資教育

national · JSDA

Who qualifies
All investors.
What you get
Webinars and guides on market mechanics.
What it actually costs you
Free.
Common gotcha
Focuses on traditional securities.

Bank of Japan Statistics

日本銀行統計

national · Bank of Japan

Who qualifies
Serious investors.
What you get
Macroeconomic data and interest rate policy updates.
What it actually costs you
Free.
Common gotcha
Data is raw and requires analysis.

METI Startup Support

経済産業省スタートアップ支援

national · METI

Who qualifies
Investors interested in J-Startup.
What you get
Information on government-backed venture projects.
What it actually costs you
Free.
Common gotcha
Not a direct investment platform.

JPX Academy

JPXアカデミー

national · Japan Exchange Group

Who qualifies
Stock market investors.
What you get
Lectures on exchange-listed products.
What it actually costs you
Free.
Common gotcha
Registration required for some events.

FSA News/Press Releases

金融庁報道発表

national · Financial Services Agency

Who qualifies
Anyone following regulatory changes.
What you get
Official updates on financial law changes.
What it actually costs you
Free.
Common gotcha
Legal jargon is heavy.

State-level schemes

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

Hokkaido北海道

Hokkaido offers unique tax incentives and infrastructure subsidies for investors focusing on renewable energy, cold-chain logistics, and high-tech agriculture.

Growing my business in the North

Hokkaido Corporate Tax Special Incentive

北海道企業立地促進補助金

state · Hokkaido Government Department of Economic Affairs

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new manufacturing or R&D facilities in designated industrial zones.
What you get
Reduction of local corporate tax rates by up to 50% for the first three years.
What it actually costs you
Requires a formal investment plan submission and proof of local hiring targets.
Common gotcha
The tax break is contingent on meeting specific local employment quotas within 24 months.

Sapporo City Startup Support Grant

札幌市スタートアップ支援助成金

municipal · Sapporo City Economic Bureau

Who qualifies
Tech startups registered in Sapporo with less than 5 years of operation.
What you get
Up to 3 million JPY for operational costs and office space rental.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business model presentation and quarterly financial reporting.
Common gotcha
Funds are released as reimbursements, so you need the cash flow upfront.

Hokkaido Renewable Energy Investment Scheme

北海道再生可能エネルギー導入促進事業

state · Hokkaido Bureau of Energy

Who qualifies
Investors in wind, solar, or biomass energy projects located within Hokkaido.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 20% of capital expenditure for grid-connection infrastructure.
What it actually costs you
Extensive environmental impact assessment documentation.
Common gotcha
Strict adherence to local grid capacity limitations is required before approval.

Hokkaido Tourism Infrastructure Low-Interest Loan

北海道観光施設整備融資

state · Hokkaido Development Bank

Who qualifies
Investors developing high-end lodging or tourism facilities in rural Hokkaido.
What you get
Loans with interest rates as low as 0.5% for 10-year terms.
What it actually costs you
Collateral requirements and a 3-year financial projection.
Common gotcha
Must be located in a designated 'Tourism Promotion Zone' to qualify.

Agri-tech and Logistics Opportunities

Hokkaido Smart Agriculture Adoption Grant

北海道スマート農業導入支援事業

state · Hokkaido Department of Agriculture

Who qualifies
Agri-tech firms or farms investing in automated harvesting or AI-based crop monitoring.
What you get
Co-financing of up to 50% for purchase of smart farming equipment.
What it actually costs you
Submission of a digital transformation roadmap for the farm.
Common gotcha
Equipment must be sourced from approved local vendors.

Cold-Chain Logistics Infrastructure Subsidy

北海道コールドチェーン物流基盤整備補助金

state · Hokkaido Department of Transport

Who qualifies
Logistics companies investing in temperature-controlled warehouses.
What you get
Grants covering 30% of construction costs for cold-storage facilities.
What it actually costs you
Compliance with strict energy-efficiency standards.
Common gotcha
Must demonstrate significant reduction in food waste for local produce.
Aomori青森県

Aomori offers unique tax incentives and infrastructure subsidies for investors focusing on renewable energy, cold-chain logistics, and high-tech agriculture.

Growing my business here

Aomori Prefecture Corporate Tax Exemption System

青森県企業立地促進奨励金

state · Aomori Prefectural Government, Industrial Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new manufacturing or logistics facilities with a minimum capital investment of 50 million yen.
What you get
Exemption or reduction of prefectural corporate tax for up to 5 years.
What it actually costs you
Requires detailed business plan submission and proof of local hiring quotas.
Common gotcha
The tax exemption is only valid if you maintain the specified number of local employees for the duration of the incentive.

Aomori Smart Agriculture Investment Support

青森県スマート農業導入支援事業

state · Aomori Agriculture and Forestry Department

Who qualifies
Investors or agricultural corporations adopting AI, IoT, or automated machinery in Aomori-based farms.
What you get
Up to 50% subsidy on the purchase of smart farming equipment.
What it actually costs you
Must submit a productivity improvement plan; reimbursement happens after equipment installation.
Common gotcha
You must prove that the technology significantly reduces labor hours compared to traditional methods.

Aomori Renewable Energy Promotion Grant

青森県再生可能エネルギー導入促進事業

state · Aomori Environmental Policy Division

Who qualifies
Investors developing wind, solar, or biomass energy projects within the prefecture.
What you get
Low-interest loans and direct grants for grid-connection infrastructure costs.
What it actually costs you
Requires an environmental impact assessment and local community consultation records.
Common gotcha
Projects in protected coastal zones face stricter regulatory hurdles.

Aomori Startup Incubation Fund

青森県スタートアップ支援基金

state · Aomori Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Aomori with innovative technology or service models.
What you get
Equity-free grants up to 3 million yen for initial R&D costs.
What it actually costs you
Pitch competition participation and quarterly progress reporting.
Common gotcha
Funding is strictly tied to spending within the prefecture.

Logistics and infrastructure support

Aomori Cold-Chain Logistics Grant

青森県コールドチェーン物流施設整備補助金

state · Aomori Commerce and Industry Department

Who qualifies
Companies building or upgrading refrigerated warehouses for Aomori agricultural exports.
What you get
Subsidies covering 30% of construction costs for cold-storage facilities.
What it actually costs you
Requires adherence to specific energy-efficiency standards for cooling units.
Common gotcha
The facility must be used primarily for locally sourced products.

Aomori Port Usage Fee Reduction

青森港港湾施設使用料減免制度

state · Aomori Port Authority

Who qualifies
Export-oriented businesses using Aomori Port for international shipping.
What you get
Significant discounts on port entry and cargo handling fees.
What it actually costs you
Annual registration with the Port Authority and volume-based contracts.
Common gotcha
Discounts are tiered; you must commit to a minimum annual volume of cargo.
Iwate岩手県

Iwate offers unique tax incentives and subsidies for investors focusing on regional revitalization, renewable energy, and high-tech manufacturing in the Tohoku region.

Growing my business in Iwate

Iwate Prefecture Corporate Tax Reduction

岩手県企業立地促進条例に基づく税制優遇

state · Iwate Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new plants or offices in designated industrial zones.
What you get
Reduction in corporate business tax for up to 5 years.
What it actually costs you
Requires a formal investment agreement with the prefecture; detailed business plan.
Common gotcha
Must meet specific local hiring quotas to maintain the tax status.

Iwate Startup Promotion Grant

いわて起業家支援補助金

state · Iwate Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
New entrepreneurs launching innovative businesses within the prefecture.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for initial setup and marketing costs.
What it actually costs you
Application through a competitive pitch process; requires 1/3 matching funds.
Common gotcha
The grant is reimbursement-based, so you need the cash flow upfront.

Iwate Renewable Energy Investment Subsidy

岩手県再生可能エネルギー導入促進事業費補助金

state · Iwate Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Investors in solar, wind, or biomass projects within Iwate.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 10% of capital expenditure for renewable infrastructure.
What it actually costs you
Strict environmental impact assessment documentation.
Common gotcha
Must be connected to the local grid and provide benefits to the local community.

Morioka City Office Relocation Grant

盛岡市オフィス立地促進補助金

municipal · Morioka City Hall

Who qualifies
IT or service-sector companies moving headquarters or branches to Morioka city center.
What you get
Monthly rent subsidy for 3 years, capped at 500,000 JPY per year.
What it actually costs you
Proof of lease agreement and local employee registration.
Common gotcha
Only applies to office space, not manufacturing facilities.

Investing in Iwate's traditional and tech sectors

Iwate Manufacturing Innovation Fund

岩手県ものづくり技術高度化支援事業

state · Iwate Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
SMEs investing in R&D for advanced manufacturing.
What you get
Matching grants for purchasing high-tech machinery.
What it actually costs you
Submission of a technical feasibility report.
Common gotcha
Requires collaboration with a local university or research institute.

Iwate Tourism Infrastructure Loan

岩手県観光施設整備資金

state · Iwate Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Investors renovating hotels or tourism facilities in Iwate.
What you get
Low-interest loans at 0.5% - 1.0% interest rates.
What it actually costs you
Standard bank collateral requirements.
Common gotcha
Must align with the prefectural tourism development master plan.
Miyagi宮城県

Miyagi offers unique tax incentives and industrial subsidies for investors looking to establish a footprint in the Tohoku region, particularly in the semiconductor and renewable energy sectors.

Growing my business in Tohoku

Miyagi Prefecture Industrial Investment Promotion Subsidy

宮城県企業立地促進補助金

state · Miyagi Prefectural Government, Department of Economic, Trade and Industry

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new manufacturing or R&D facilities within Miyagi prefecture.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 10-20% of capital investment costs for new facilities.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local employment, and 3-6 months for application review.
Common gotcha
The subsidy is often paid after the facility is operational, requiring strong initial liquidity.

Sendai City Startup Support Program

仙台市スタートアップ支援事業

municipal · Sendai City Industry Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Sendai city.
What you get
Access to subsidized office space in Sendai's innovation hubs and mentoring services.
What it actually costs you
Application fee is zero, but requires a pitch deck and proof of local registration.
Common gotcha
Highly competitive; the selection process happens only twice a year.

Miyagi Renewable Energy Business Promotion Grant

宮城県再生可能エネルギー導入促進事業

state · Miyagi Prefectural Government, Environment Policy Division

Who qualifies
Businesses investing in solar, wind, or biomass projects within the prefecture.
What you get
Direct grants for infrastructure installation costs up to 5 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Environmental impact assessment documentation and project feasibility studies.
Common gotcha
Strict adherence to local zoning laws is mandatory before applying.

Managing my tax and capital

Miyagi Prefecture Corporate Tax Exemption for Strategic Industries

宮城県戦略産業法人税免除

state · Miyagi Prefectural Tax Office

Who qualifies
Investors in designated strategic zones like the Sendai Port area.
What you get
Reduced prefectural corporate tax rates for up to 5 years.
What it actually costs you
Annual tax filings and proof of local job creation targets.
Common gotcha
Failure to meet the minimum employee count in any given year voids the exemption.

Miyagi Prefecture Credit Guarantee Association

宮城県信用保証協会

state · Miyagi Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
SMEs and investors struggling to secure traditional bank loans.
What you get
Government-backed loan guarantees to reduce collateral requirements.
What it actually costs you
Guarantee fee (usually 0.5% to 2.2% of the loan amount).
Common gotcha
The guarantee covers the bank, not the borrower; you are still liable for the debt.
Akita秋田県

Akita offers unique tax incentives and relocation grants for investors looking to establish businesses in rural revitalization zones or renewable energy sectors.

Growing my business in Akita

Akita Prefecture Corporate Location Promotion Subsidy

秋田県企業立地促進補助金

state · Akita Prefectural Government, Industrial Policy Division

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new offices or factories in Akita with a minimum of 5 new local hires.
What you get
Up to 500 million JPY in subsidies for capital investment and facility construction costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local employment, and 3-6 months of review time.
Common gotcha
You must maintain the facility and employment levels for at least 5 years or face a partial clawback.

Akita Renewable Energy Business Promotion Grant

秋田県再生可能エネルギー導入促進事業

state · Akita Prefectural Government, Energy Policy Division

Who qualifies
Investors in wind, solar, or biomass projects located within designated Akita energy zones.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 30% of equipment procurement costs for renewable energy infrastructure.
What it actually costs you
Environmental impact assessment documentation and local community consultation records.
Common gotcha
Projects must align with the prefecture's specific carbon-neutral roadmap to be eligible.

Akita Startup Support Fund

秋田県スタートアップ支援基金

state · Akita Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Akita with high-growth potential in digital or agricultural tech.
What you get
Low-interest loans and equity investment matching up to 10 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck, financial projections, and a mandatory mentorship program participation.
Common gotcha
The fund requires a local partner or office presence in Akita city or surrounding municipalities.

Living and investing in the region

Akita Rural Housing Renovation Grant

秋田県空き家改修支援事業

state · Akita Prefectural Housing Division

Who qualifies
Investors or individuals purchasing and renovating 'akiya' (abandoned houses) for residential or business use.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY to cover renovation and seismic retrofitting costs.
What it actually costs you
Proof of property ownership and building inspection reports.
Common gotcha
Must be a property listed on the official Akita vacant house database.

Akita Work-Life Balance Certification Incentive

秋田県ワークライフバランス推進企業認定

state · Akita Labor Bureau

Who qualifies
Businesses that implement flexible working hours and childcare support for employees.
What you get
Preferential treatment in prefectural government procurement bids and tax credits.
What it actually costs you
Annual audit of employee working hours and HR policy documentation.
Common gotcha
Certification must be renewed annually to maintain bidding advantages.
Yamagata山形県

Yamagata offers unique tax incentives and relocation subsidies for investors targeting the prefecture's specialized agricultural tech and manufacturing sectors.

Growing my business here

Yamagata Prefecture Corporate Tax Reduction for New Businesses

山形県企業立地促進補助金

state · Yamagata Prefectural Government, Department of Industry

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new manufacturing or R&D facilities in Yamagata.
What you get
Reduction in corporate enterprise tax for up to 5 years.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local hiring, and investment capital verification.
Common gotcha
Must maintain a specific headcount of local residents to remain eligible.

Yamagata Startup Support Subsidy

山形県創業支援補助金

state · Yamagata Industrial Promotion Organization

Who qualifies
New entrepreneurs setting up headquarters within the prefecture.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for initial operational expenses.
What it actually costs you
Business registration documents and a pitch deck for the review committee.
Common gotcha
Funds are reimbursement-based; you must spend first and claim later.

Yamagata Smart Agriculture Investment Grant

山形県スマート農業導入支援事業

state · Yamagata Agriculture and Forestry Department

Who qualifies
Investors or firms implementing IoT/AI solutions in local farming.
What you get
Covers 50% of costs for smart machinery or software implementation.
What it actually costs you
Technical proposal and partnership agreement with a local farm.
Common gotcha
Requires proof of measurable efficiency gains within 12 months.

Yamagata Prefecture Innovation Low-Interest Loan

山形県経営革新融資

state · Yamagata Prefectural Credit Guarantee Association

Who qualifies
Small to medium enterprises looking to modernize operations.
What you get
Low-interest loans with extended repayment terms.
What it actually costs you
Credit check and business viability assessment.
Common gotcha
Requires a formal 'Management Innovation Plan' approved by the prefecture.

Settling and living in Yamagata

Yamagata Migration and Settlement Subsidy

山形県移住支援金

state · Yamagata Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Individuals moving from Tokyo/urban areas to Yamagata for work or business.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY for relocation and housing costs.
What it actually costs you
Proof of residency change and employment/business registration.
Common gotcha
Must commit to residing in the prefecture for at least 5 years.

Yamagata Rural Housing Renovation Grant

山形県住宅リフォーム支援事業

state · Yamagata Housing Bureau

Who qualifies
Investors purchasing and renovating older homes in rural Yamagata.
What you get
Up to 500,000 JPY for eco-friendly or structural renovations.
What it actually costs you
Building permits and contractor quotes.
Common gotcha
Must use local contractors registered with the prefecture.

Yamagata Work-Life Balance Support Grant

山形県ワークライフバランス推進助成金

state · Yamagata Labor Bureau

Who qualifies
Business owners providing childcare facilities or flexible hours for employees.
What you get
Financial support for setting up office daycare or telework infrastructure.
What it actually costs you
Internal policy documents and employee usage reports.
Common gotcha
Must be filed before the implementation of the new policy.
Fukushima福島県

Fukushima offers unique tax incentives and subsidies for investors focusing on renewable energy and advanced manufacturing to revitalize the regional economy.

Growing my business here

Fukushima Innovation Coast Framework Tax Incentives

福島イノベーション・コースト構想関連税制優遇

state · Fukushima Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Businesses investing in designated zones within the Innovation Coast area.
What you get
Corporate tax deductions or special depreciation on capital investments.
What it actually costs you
Requires detailed business plan submission and certification by the prefecture.
Common gotcha
The tax benefits are strictly tied to specific industrial sectors like robotics and energy.

Fukushima Corporate Location Subsidy

福島県企業立地促進補助金

state · Fukushima Department of Commerce and Industry

Who qualifies
Companies establishing or expanding manufacturing facilities in the prefecture.
What you get
Subsidies covering a percentage of land acquisition and facility construction costs.
What it actually costs you
Requires a minimum headcount commitment for local hiring.
Common gotcha
If you fail to meet local hiring quotas, you may be required to return a portion of the subsidy.

Investing in the future of energy

Fukushima Renewable Energy Project Support

福島県再生可能エネルギー導入支援事業

state · Fukushima Renewable Energy Promotion Office

Who qualifies
Investors in solar, wind, or biomass projects within Fukushima prefecture.
What you get
Low-interest loans and partial grants for infrastructure development.
What it actually costs you
Environmental impact assessment reports and local community consultation records.
Common gotcha
Projects must align with the prefecture's 2040 renewable energy goal.

Hydrogen Technology Investment Grant

福島県水素関連技術開発支援補助金

state · Fukushima Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
R&D firms and investors developing hydrogen storage or transport solutions.
What you get
Direct funding for prototype development and testing facilities.
What it actually costs you
Rigorous quarterly reporting on technical milestones.
Common gotcha
The grant is highly competitive and favors collaborative research with local universities.
Ibaraki茨城県

Ibaraki offers unique incentives for tech and manufacturing investors looking to leverage its proximity to Tokyo while benefiting from lower land costs and specialized industrial subsidies.

Growing my business in Ibaraki

Ibaraki Prefecture Industrial Location Promotion Subsidy

茨城県企業立地促進補助金

state · Ibaraki Prefectural Government, Department of Industrial and Labor Affairs

Who qualifies
Companies establishing or expanding manufacturing, research, or logistics facilities in designated zones.
What you get
Subsidies covering a percentage of fixed asset investment costs, often capped at several hundred million yen.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local hiring, and strict adherence to environmental standards.
Common gotcha
Must apply before starting construction; retroactive applications are strictly rejected.

Ibaraki Startup Support Program

茨城県スタートアップ支援事業

state · Ibaraki Prefecture Startup Promotion Office

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups with innovative technology or social solutions based in Ibaraki.
What you get
Access to venture capital matching, mentoring, and office space subsidies.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck, financial projections, and commitment to local networking events.
Common gotcha
The program is highly competitive and favors companies that collaborate with local universities.

Ibaraki Corporate Tax Reduction for Strategic Industries

茨城県戦略産業法人税減税

state · Ibaraki Prefectural Tax Office

Who qualifies
Businesses operating in high-tech, green energy, or life science sectors within the prefecture.
What you get
Reduced prefectural corporate tax rates for up to 5 years.
What it actually costs you
Annual tax filings and certification of strategic industry status.
Common gotcha
Requires maintaining a specific headcount of full-time employees in the prefecture.

Investing in local infrastructure and sustainability

Ibaraki Renewable Energy Installation Grant

茨城県再生可能エネルギー導入補助金

state · Ibaraki Prefectural Environment Bureau

Who qualifies
Commercial entities installing solar, biomass, or wind power generation systems.
What you get
Direct grant covering up to 20% of installation costs.
What it actually costs you
Technical feasibility report and environmental impact assessment.
Common gotcha
The grant is often exhausted within weeks of the annual call for applications.

Ibaraki Tourism Infrastructure Development Fund

茨城県観光インフラ整備基金

state · Ibaraki Tourism and Local Products Division

Who qualifies
Investors developing hotels, glamping sites, or cultural experience facilities.
What you get
Low-interest loans and infrastructure improvement grants.
What it actually costs you
Tourism impact study and local community engagement plan.
Common gotcha
Must demonstrate how the project attracts international visitors to the region.
Tochigi栃木県

Tochigi offers specific tax incentives and industrial subsidies for investors looking to expand into the Kanto region's manufacturing and tech hubs.

Growing my business in Tochigi

Tochigi Prefecture Industrial Location Promotion Subsidy

栃木県企業立地促進補助金

state · Tochigi Prefectural Government Industrial Policy Division

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new manufacturing or R&D facilities within Tochigi.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 10-20% of capital investment costs for new facilities.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local hiring, and 6-12 months of application review.
Common gotcha
The subsidy is paid after the facility is operational, so you need significant upfront capital.

Tochigi Prefecture Corporate Tax Exemption Ordinance

栃木県企業立地促進条例

state · Tochigi Prefectural Tax Office

Who qualifies
Businesses investing over a certain threshold in designated industrial zones.
What you get
Exemption from prefectural corporate tax for up to 3 years.
What it actually costs you
Submission of tax declaration forms and proof of investment scale.
Common gotcha
Only applies to prefectural-level taxes, not national corporate taxes.

Utsunomiya City Startup Support Program

宇都宮市創業支援事業

municipal · Utsunomiya City Economic Department

Who qualifies
New entrepreneurs and SMEs registered within Utsunomiya city limits.
What you get
Low-interest loans and access to subsidized office space in city incubators.
What it actually costs you
Certification from the city's Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Common gotcha
Requires attending mandatory management seminars to qualify for the loan interest rate reduction.

Tochigi Digital Transformation Promotion Grant

栃木県DX推進事業費補助金

state · Tochigi Prefectural Digital Strategy Division

Who qualifies
Local SMEs implementing digital tools to improve productivity.
What you get
Grant covering 50% of costs for IT system implementation, up to 1 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Submission of a digital implementation roadmap and vendor quotes.
Common gotcha
Must use pre-approved IT vendors or systems listed by the prefecture.

Investing in local tourism and agriculture

Tochigi Tourism Facility Improvement Subsidy

栃木県観光施設整備支援事業

state · Tochigi Prefectural Tourism Exchange Division

Who qualifies
Operators of tourism facilities (hotels, ryokans) in Tochigi.
What you get
Financial support for renovating facilities to accommodate international tourists.
What it actually costs you
Detailed renovation plan and proof of compliance with safety standards.
Common gotcha
Strict requirements for multilingual signage and accessibility features.

Tochigi Agricultural Innovation Investment Fund

栃木県農業イノベーション投資基金

state · Tochigi Prefectural Agriculture and Forestry Department

Who qualifies
Investors in smart-agriculture technology or high-value crop production.
What you get
Matching grants for investments in automated farming equipment.
What it actually costs you
Proof of agricultural land usage and long-term production plan.
Common gotcha
Must demonstrate a clear link to increasing the export value of Tochigi produce.
Gunma群馬県

Gunma offers unique incentives for investors focusing on renewable energy, manufacturing, and tech-driven rural revitalization.

Growing my business in Gunma

Gunma Prefecture Industrial Location Promotion Subsidy

群馬県企業立地促進補助金

state · Gunma Prefectural Government Industrial Policy Division

Who qualifies
Companies establishing or expanding manufacturing, logistics, or research facilities in designated zones.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 10-20% of capital investment costs for new facilities.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of investment capital, and environmental impact assessment.
Common gotcha
Must apply before starting construction; retroactive applications are strictly rejected.

Gunma Startup Support Fund

群馬県スタートアップ支援資金

state · Gunma Industrial Promotion Organization

Who qualifies
Startups registered in Gunma with innovative business models in digital or green tech.
What you get
Low-interest loans and matching grants for R&D and market entry.
What it actually costs you
Submission of a 3-year financial projection and pitch deck.
Common gotcha
Requires a local partner or office presence in Maebashi or Takasaki.

Gunma Renewable Energy Investment Credit

群馬県再生可能エネルギー導入支援

state · Gunma Environment and Energy Division

Who qualifies
Investors installing solar, biomass, or small-scale hydro power generation systems.
What you get
Tax credits on corporate income tax based on the capacity of the installation.
What it actually costs you
Technical certification of equipment and grid connection agreement.
Common gotcha
Only applies to systems connected to the local grid.

Gunma DX Promotion Subsidy

群馬県DX推進補助金

state · Gunma Digital Transformation Promotion Office

Who qualifies
SMEs investing in digital tools to improve productivity or remote work capabilities.
What you get
Reimbursement of up to 50% of software or hardware procurement costs.
What it actually costs you
Invoices and proof of implementation of digital systems.
Common gotcha
Must demonstrate a clear productivity increase metric in the final report.

Living and working in the region

Gunma Migration and Employment Subsidy

群馬県移住支援金

state · Gunma Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Individuals moving from the Tokyo Metropolitan Area to Gunma for specific high-demand jobs.
What you get
One-time payment of up to 1 million JPY for relocation expenses.
What it actually costs you
Proof of residency change and employment contract.
Common gotcha
Must reside in the prefecture for at least 5 years to avoid repayment.

Gunma Childcare Facility Investment Subsidy

群馬県保育所整備補助金

state · Gunma Health and Welfare Department

Who qualifies
Businesses creating on-site daycare facilities for employees.
What you get
Partial coverage of construction and operational costs for childcare centers.
What it actually costs you
Compliance with strict prefectural safety and staffing standards.
Common gotcha
Requires licensing from the local municipal office.
Saitama埼玉県

Saitama offers unique tax incentives and business support grants for investors looking to establish operations in the Tokyo metropolitan periphery.

Growing my business in Saitama

Saitama Prefecture Industrial Location Promotion Subsidy

埼玉県企業立地促進補助金

state · Saitama Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Companies establishing or expanding manufacturing or R&D facilities in designated zones.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 10% of capital investment costs for new facilities.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of investment, and strict adherence to environmental standards.
Common gotcha
The application must be filed before construction begins; retroactive applications are strictly rejected.

Saitama Prefecture SME Credit Guarantee System

埼玉県中小企業制度融資

state · Saitama Credit Guarantee Corporation

Who qualifies
Small and medium-sized enterprises registered in Saitama.
What you get
Prefectural guarantee for bank loans, lowering interest rates and collateral requirements.
What it actually costs you
Guarantee fee paid to the corporation, financial statements for the last 3 years.
Common gotcha
Requires a recommendation letter from the local Chamber of Commerce.

Saitama Startup Business Support Fund

埼玉県創業支援資金

state · Saitama Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
New entrepreneurs starting a business within Saitama Prefecture.
What you get
Low-interest loans up to 35 million JPY for startup capital.
What it actually costs you
Business plan presentation and proof of local office registration.
Common gotcha
The business must be registered within the prefecture to qualify.

Optimizing my tax footprint

Saitama Prefecture Enterprise Tax Reduction for New Facilities

埼玉県法人事業税の課税免除

state · Saitama Tax Office

Who qualifies
Investors building new plants or R&D centers in designated industrial parks.
What you get
Exemption from prefectural enterprise tax for up to 3 years.
What it actually costs you
Application filed with the annual tax return.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific 'industrial promotion' zones defined by the prefecture.

Saitama Green Building Tax Credit

埼玉県環境配慮型建築物税制優遇

state · Saitama Environment Department

Who qualifies
Investors constructing buildings with high energy-efficiency ratings (CASBEE).
What you get
Reduction in property acquisition tax.
What it actually costs you
Certification documentation from a licensed energy auditor.
Common gotcha
Must reach a specific rank in the CASBEE Saitama evaluation system.
Chiba千葉県

Chiba offers unique tax incentives for foreign investors in the Keiyo Industrial Zone and specialized subsidies for tech startups looking to leverage proximity to Narita Airport.

Growing my business in Chiba

Chiba Prefecture Enterprise Location Promotion Subsidy

千葉県企業立地促進補助金

state · Chiba Prefectural Government, Commerce and Industry Division

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new manufacturing or R&D facilities with a minimum investment of 500 million JPY.
What you get
Up to 10% of eligible capital investment costs, capped at 500 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of land acquisition, and 3-year financial projections.
Common gotcha
Must apply before construction begins; retroactive applications are strictly rejected.

Chiba Prefecture Startup Support Fund

千葉県スタートアップ支援事業

state · Chiba Industry Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Chiba with innovative technology or business models.
What you get
Matching grants up to 2 million JPY for marketing and prototype development.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck, tax payment certificates, and a formal interview with the selection committee.
Common gotcha
The grant is reimbursement-based; you must have the cash flow to spend first.

Keiyo Industrial Zone Tax Exemption

京葉臨海コンビナート固定資産税軽減措置

state · Chiba Prefectural Tax Office

Who qualifies
Businesses operating within designated zones in the Keiyo industrial belt.
What you get
Reduction in fixed asset tax for 3 years on new equipment and facilities.
What it actually costs you
Submission of the 'Designated Business Plan' to the prefectural office.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific industrial sectors; retail or service offices are excluded.

Chiba Overseas Market Expansion Grant

千葉県海外市場開拓支援補助金

state · Chiba Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
SMEs based in Chiba looking to export products to international markets.
What you get
Subsidies covering 50% of trade show exhibition fees and translation costs.
What it actually costs you
Documentation of international sales strategy and post-event reporting.
Common gotcha
The cap is low (500,000 JPY); it is intended for small-scale market testing.

Living and investing in Chiba

Chiba Prefecture Housing Acquisition Subsidy for Young Families

千葉県子育て世帯住宅取得補助金

state · Chiba Prefectural Housing Division

Who qualifies
Families under 40 moving to designated 'revitalization zones' within the prefecture.
What you get
One-time payment of 300,000 JPY to assist with down payments.
What it actually costs you
Proof of residency and a 5-year commitment to remain in the property.
Common gotcha
Available only in specific municipalities; check if your target city participates.

Chiba Residential Solar Installation Rebate

千葉県住宅用太陽光発電システム設置費補助金

state · Chiba Environment and Energy Bureau

Who qualifies
Homeowners installing solar panels on residential properties in Chiba.
What you get
Rebate of 20,000 JPY per kilowatt installed.
What it actually costs you
Installation receipt and certificate of grid connection from TEPCO.
Common gotcha
Funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis annually.
Tokyo東京都

Tokyo offers the most sophisticated financial incentives for individual investors and startup founders in Japan, focusing on tax breaks for angel investment and green energy infrastructure.

Making my money work harder in Tokyo

Tokyo Angel Tax Incentive

東京都エンジェル税制

state · Tokyo Metropolitan Government

Who qualifies
Individual investors who invest in Tokyo-based certified startups.
What you get
Deduction of up to 80% of the investment amount from taxable income.
What it actually costs you
Requires certification of the startup and filing of specific tax forms during annual returns.
Common gotcha
The startup must be officially certified by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government before the investment is made.

Tokyo Green Bond Individual Investor Program

東京都グリーンボンド

state · Tokyo Bureau of Finance

Who qualifies
Residents of Tokyo looking for stable, ESG-focused municipal investments.
What you get
Fixed-interest returns backed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government for green infrastructure projects.
What it actually costs you
Minimum investment usually starts at 100,000 JPY; requires a brokerage account that handles municipal bonds.
Common gotcha
These bonds are issued in limited tranches and sell out very quickly upon release.

Scaling my ventures in the city

Tokyo Startup Visa Program

東京都スタートアップビザ

state · Tokyo Metropolitan Government

Who qualifies
Foreign entrepreneurs planning to launch a business in Tokyo.
What you get
A 6-month residency permit to prepare for business operations without needing initial capital proof.
What it actually costs you
Requires a detailed business plan submitted to the Tokyo government for approval.
Common gotcha
This is a preparatory visa; you must transition to a standard Business Manager visa within 6 months.

Tokyo SME Credit Guarantee

東京都中小企業制度融資

state · Tokyo Credit Guarantee Corporation

Who qualifies
Small and medium business owners operating within the Tokyo 23 wards.
What you get
Government-backed loan guarantees making it easier to secure bank financing.
What it actually costs you
Application fee and a guarantee commission based on the loan amount.
Common gotcha
The bank makes the final decision; the guarantee only covers the risk, it does not guarantee the loan approval.
Kanagawa神奈川県

Kanagawa offers a unique blend of high-tech startup incentives and robust support for foreign investors looking to establish a foothold in the Greater Tokyo area.

Growing my business in Kanagawa

Kanagawa Startup Support Subsidy

かながわ・スタートアップ・アクセラレーション・プログラム

state · Kanagawa Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Startups registered in Kanagawa with innovative business models.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for business expansion and R&D costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local office, 3-month application review.
Common gotcha
The application window is very narrow, usually opening only once per fiscal year.

Yokohama Innovation Hub Membership

横浜市イノベーションハブ

municipal · City of Yokohama

Who qualifies
Entrepreneurs and investors based in Yokohama.
What you get
Access to networking events, office space subsidies, and mentorship.
What it actually costs you
Annual membership fee, pitch deck presentation.
Common gotcha
Requires physical presence in the designated 'Innovation Zone' of the city.

Kanagawa Business Manager Visa Consulting

神奈川県外国人起業家支援

state · Kanagawa Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Foreign investors planning to open a business in Kanagawa.
What you get
Free administrative consultation for visa acquisition and incorporation.
What it actually costs you
Time for mandatory in-person consultations.
Common gotcha
Does not guarantee visa approval, only provides document review assistance.

Kanagawa Green Energy Investment Incentive

かながわ再エネ導入支援

state · Kanagawa Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Businesses investing in solar or wind energy infrastructure within the prefecture.
What you get
Tax deductions and direct subsidies for equipment installation.
What it actually costs you
Technical certification of equipment, environmental impact report.
Common gotcha
Must meet strict prefecture-wide carbon reduction standards.

Living and tax benefits in the region

Kanagawa Work-Life Balance Certification

かながわ子育て応援認定

state · Kanagawa Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Companies with employees in Kanagawa.
What you get
Preferential interest rates on state-backed business loans.
What it actually costs you
Annual audit of employee working hours and leave policies.
Common gotcha
Requires showing actual improvement in employee retention.

Yokohama Special Economic Zone Tax Relief

横浜市特区税制優遇

municipal · City of Yokohama

Who qualifies
Specific R&D companies in designated zones.
What you get
Corporate tax reduction for up to 5 years.
What it actually costs you
Strict reporting of R&D expenditure.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific industries like Life Sciences or AI.
Niigata新潟県

Niigata offers unique tax incentives and subsidies for investors focusing on renewable energy, food-tech, and regional revitalization projects that leverage the prefecture's massive agricultural and geothermal assets.

Growing my business in Niigata

Niigata Prefecture Corporate Tax Exemption for New Investments

新潟県企業立地促進奨励金

state · Niigata Prefectural Government, Industrial Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new manufacturing or R&D facilities with a minimum investment of 50 million JPY.
What you get
Partial exemption from prefectural corporate taxes for 3-5 years.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local hiring, and 3-6 months of application review.
Common gotcha
You must apply before starting construction; retroactive applications are strictly rejected.

Niigata Startup Support Grant

新潟県スタートアップ支援事業

state · Niigata Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Startups registered in Niigata within the last 3 years focusing on digital transformation or regional issues.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for operational costs and market research.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck, financial projections, and mandatory quarterly progress reports.
Common gotcha
The grant is reimbursement-based, so you need the cash flow to spend first.

Niigata Renewable Energy Project Subsidy

新潟県再生可能エネルギー導入支援事業

state · Niigata Prefectural Government, Environment Policy Division

Who qualifies
Investors developing small-to-medium scale solar or biomass projects within the prefecture.
What you get
Subsidies covering 10-20% of equipment installation costs.
What it actually costs you
Environmental impact assessment and technical feasibility study.
Common gotcha
Strict adherence to local zoning laws is required; permits take longer than expected.

Niigata Agri-Tech Innovation Grant

新潟県スマート農業推進事業

state · Niigata Department of Agriculture

Who qualifies
Investors partnering with local farms to implement IoT or automated harvesting technology.
What you get
Up to 5 million JPY for technology integration and hardware procurement.
What it actually costs you
Proof of partnership with a local agricultural cooperative (JA).
Common gotcha
Must demonstrate direct benefit to Niigata's rice or fruit production efficiency.

Incentives for moving and living here

Niigata Prefecture Remote Work Relocation Grant

新潟県移住支援金

state · Niigata Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Individuals moving from Tokyo's 23 wards to Niigata to work remotely or start a business.
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 Niigata.
Common gotcha
You must commit to living in the prefecture for at least 5 years or face a clawback.

Niigata Corporate Childcare Support

新潟県企業主導型保育事業

state · Niigata Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Businesses investing in on-site childcare facilities for employees.
What you get
Subsidies for facility construction and monthly operational costs.
What it actually costs you
Compliance with national and prefectural safety standards.
Common gotcha
High administrative burden to maintain licensing status.
Toyama富山県

Toyama offers unique incentives for investors focusing on manufacturing, renewable energy, and regional business expansion in the Hokuriku corridor.

Growing my business in Toyama

Toyama Prefecture Corporate Location Promotion Subsidy

富山県企業立地促進助成金

state · Toyama Prefectural Government, Department of Commerce and Industry

Who qualifies
Companies establishing or expanding manufacturing or R&D facilities in Toyama.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 10-20% of fixed asset investment costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local employment creation, and 3-6 months approval process.
Common gotcha
Must apply before starting construction; retroactive applications are strictly rejected.

Toyama Startup Growth Support Program

富山県スタートアップ成長支援事業

state · Toyama New Industry Organization

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Toyama with innovative business models.
What you get
Grant funding up to 2 million JPY for market research and prototype development.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck, financial projections, and mandatory participation in local networking events.
Common gotcha
Requires a local office address within Toyama prefecture to be eligible.

Toyama Manufacturing DX Promotion Grant

富山県ものづくりDX推進補助金

state · Toyama Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) investing in digital transformation (DX) tools.
What you get
Reimbursement of 50% of costs for IT systems and automation software, up to 1 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Invoices, proof of implementation, and a post-project impact report.
Common gotcha
Hardware costs are often excluded; only software and integration costs qualify.

Toyama Renewable Energy Installation Subsidy

富山県再生可能エネルギー導入支援事業

state · Toyama Environmental Policy Division

Who qualifies
Businesses installing solar panels or biomass energy systems at their facilities.
What you get
Direct subsidy covering 1/3 of installation costs.
What it actually costs you
Technical feasibility study and environmental impact assessment.
Common gotcha
Must comply with local landscape ordinances regarding panel visibility.

Finding and keeping local talent

Toyama Youth Employment Promotion Grant

富山県若年者雇用促進奨励金

state · Toyama Labor Bureau

Who qualifies
Employers hiring full-time staff under the age of 30 who are residents of Toyama.
What you get
300,000 JPY per new hire retained for over 12 months.
What it actually costs you
Employment contracts and social insurance registration documents.
Common gotcha
The hire must be a permanent employee (seishain), not a contract worker.

Toyama U-Turn Talent Recruitment Support

富山県UIJターン就職支援事業

state · Toyama Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Companies hiring individuals returning to Toyama from Tokyo or other major cities.
What you get
Subsidies for recruitment advertising and interview travel expenses for candidates.
What it actually costs you
Proof of candidate's previous residence and current employment status.
Common gotcha
The candidate must have lived outside Toyama for at least 3 years.
Ishikawa石川県

Ishikawa offers targeted tax incentives and infrastructure support for high-tech manufacturing and traditional craft industries, making it a strategic hub for regional investment.

Scaling my business in Ishikawa

Ishikawa Prefecture Industrial Promotion Subsidy

石川県産業振興補助金

state · Ishikawa Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) investing in new production facilities or R&D within the prefecture.
What you get
Partial reimbursement of capital expenditure, typically up to 1/3 of eligible costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local employment, and 3-6 months for committee review.
Common gotcha
The subsidy is competitive; you must prove your project creates local jobs.

Kanazawa City Startup Incubation Program

金沢市スタートアップ支援事業

municipal · Kanazawa City Hall

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Kanazawa focusing on tech or tourism innovation.
What you get
Subsidized office space and access to local mentorship networks.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck presentation and annual progress reporting.
Common gotcha
Requires a physical office presence in Kanazawa city limits.

Ishikawa Green Investment Tax Credit

石川県環境配慮型投資促進税制

state · Ishikawa Prefectural Tax Office

Who qualifies
Businesses investing in energy-efficient machinery or carbon-neutral infrastructure.
What you get
Corporate tax deduction or special depreciation on qualifying assets.
What it actually costs you
Certification from the prefecture that the equipment meets energy standards.
Common gotcha
Must be applied for before the equipment is purchased.

Investing in traditional heritage

Ishikawa Traditional Craft Export Grant

石川県伝統的工芸品輸出促進事業

state · Ishikawa Department of Commerce and Industry

Who qualifies
Businesses involved in the export of Kutani-yaki or Wajima-nuri crafts.
What you get
Financial support for international marketing and logistics costs.
What it actually costs you
Proof of export contracts and marketing invoices.
Common gotcha
Strict adherence to traditional manufacturing standards is required.

Kanazawa Tourism Infrastructure Low-Interest Loan

金沢市観光施設整備資金貸付

municipal · Kanazawa City Tourism Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Investors renovating historical buildings for tourism or hospitality use.
What you get
Low-interest loans with extended repayment terms.
What it actually costs you
Detailed architectural plans and historical preservation compliance approval.
Common gotcha
Renovations must comply with strict aesthetic guidelines for historical districts.
Fukui福井県

Fukui offers unique tax incentives and industrial subsidies for investors looking to tap into its robust manufacturing and renewable energy sectors.

Growing my business in Fukui

Fukui Prefecture Corporate Tax Exemption for New Investments

福井県企業立地促進奨励金

state · Fukui Prefectural Government, Industrial Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new manufacturing or R&D facilities with a minimum capital investment of 50 million JPY.
What you get
Partial exemption from local corporate taxes for up to 3 years.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of investment, and 3-6 months processing time.
Common gotcha
Must apply before the construction of the facility begins.

Fukui Startup Support Grant

福井県スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Fukui Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Startups registered in Fukui within the last 3 years focusing on digital transformation or green energy.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY in matching grants for operational expenses.
What it actually costs you
Submission of a pitch deck and financial projections; competitive selection process.
Common gotcha
Funds are disbursed as reimbursement, not upfront capital.

Fukui Renewable Energy Project Subsidy

福井県再生可能エネルギー導入促進事業

state · Fukui Prefectural Energy Division

Who qualifies
Investors developing solar, wind, or biomass projects within Fukui prefecture.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 1/3 of the installation cost for renewable energy infrastructure.
What it actually costs you
Environmental impact assessment and local community consultation reports.
Common gotcha
Strict adherence to local zoning laws is required for approval.

Fukui Industrial Park Leasing Discount

福井県工業団地貸付料減免制度

state · Fukui Industrial Promotion Agency

Who qualifies
Investors leasing land in designated industrial zones in Fukui.
What you get
Reduced land lease rates for the first 5 years of operation.
What it actually costs you
Proof of employment generation for local residents.
Common gotcha
Lease rates revert to market price if employment targets are not met.

Hiring and R&D support

Fukui Local Employment Promotion Grant

福井県雇用促進奨励金

state · Fukui Labor Bureau

Who qualifies
Businesses hiring permanent staff who are residents of Fukui.
What you get
500,000 JPY per new permanent hire, capped at 10 employees per year.
What it actually costs you
Employment contracts and proof of residency for new hires.
Common gotcha
Employee must remain on the payroll for at least 12 months.

Fukui Industry-Academia Collaboration Fund

福井県産学官連携研究開発費補助金

state · Fukui Prefectural University / Industry Department

Who qualifies
Companies partnering with local universities for R&D projects.
What you get
Grant covering 50% of research costs up to 5 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Joint research agreement and clear project milestones.
Common gotcha
IP rights must be clearly defined in the initial application.
Yamanashi山梨県

Yamanashi offers unique tax incentives and infrastructure support for investors focusing on renewable energy, high-tech manufacturing, and the burgeoning tourism sector near Mt. Fuji.

Growing my business here

Yamanashi Corporate Tax Reduction for New Facilities

山梨県企業立地促進補助金

state · Yamanashi Prefectural Government, Department of Industry and Labor

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new manufacturing or R&D facilities in designated industrial zones.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 10-20% of capital investment costs for new facilities.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local hiring, and 3-6 months of application review.
Common gotcha
Must maintain operations for at least 5 years or face clawback provisions.

Yamanashi Startup Ecosystem Development Grant

山梨県スタートアップ創出支援事業

state · Yamanashi Industrial Promotion Corporation

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Yamanashi focusing on tech or regional solutions.
What you get
Matching grants up to 5 million JPY for product development and marketing.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck, financial projections, and annual progress reporting.
Common gotcha
Requires a local partner or office presence in Kofu or surrounding areas.

Yamanashi Renewable Energy Investment Subsidy

山梨県再生可能エネルギー導入促進事業

state · Yamanashi Prefectural Government, Environmental Policy Division

Who qualifies
Investors developing solar, hydro, or hydrogen-based energy projects within the prefecture.
What you get
Subsidies for equipment installation and grid connection costs.
What it actually costs you
Environmental impact assessment and technical feasibility study.
Common gotcha
Strict adherence to local land-use regulations is mandatory.

Yamanashi Tourism Infrastructure Low-Interest Loan

山梨県観光施設整備資金貸付

state · Yamanashi Prefectural Government, Tourism Division

Who qualifies
Investors renovating or building high-end accommodation or tourism facilities.
What you get
Low-interest loans with interest rates capped at 0.5% below market average.
What it actually costs you
Collateral requirements and 2-month approval timeline.
Common gotcha
Facility must meet specific 'Yamanashi Quality' standards for guest services.

Connecting with the local economy

Yamanashi Industry-Academia-Government Matching Platform

山梨県産学官連携プラットフォーム

state · Yamanashi Industrial Promotion Corporation

Who qualifies
Investors looking to collaborate with local universities like University of Yamanashi.
What you get
Access to research talent and shared laboratory facilities.
What it actually costs you
Membership fee and time spent in networking events.
Common gotcha
Projects must demonstrate clear benefit to the local Yamanashi economy.

Yamanashi Overseas Market Expansion Support

山梨県海外展開支援事業

state · Yamanashi Prefectural Government, International Trade Division

Who qualifies
Local companies looking to export Yamanashi-made goods (e.g., wine, jewelry, machinery).
What you get
Partial coverage of trade fair booth fees and translation services.
What it actually costs you
Application for specific trade missions and post-event reporting.
Common gotcha
Limited to companies with a significant production footprint in the prefecture.
Nagano長野県

Nagano offers unique tax incentives and infrastructure support for investors focusing on green energy, high-tech manufacturing, and sustainable tourism in the Japanese Alps.

Growing my business in the Alps

Nagano Prefecture Corporate Tax Exemption for New Facilities

長野県企業立地促進補助金

state · Nagano Prefectural Government, Industrial Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new manufacturing or R&D facilities in designated industrial zones.
What you get
Exemption from prefectural corporate tax for up to 3 years and subsidies for land acquisition.
What it actually costs you
Requires a detailed investment plan, proof of local hiring, and a 3-year audit commitment.
Common gotcha
The exemption only applies to prefectural taxes, not national corporate taxes.

Nagano Renewable Energy Project Subsidy

長野県再生可能エネルギー導入促進事業費補助金

state · Nagano Prefectural Government, Environmental Policy Division

Who qualifies
Investors in solar, biomass, or small-scale hydroelectric projects within the prefecture.
What you get
Up to 30% of capital expenditure for renewable energy infrastructure.
What it actually costs you
Environmental impact assessment report and local community consultation records.
Common gotcha
Must prove that the energy generated contributes to local grid stability.

Nagano Startup Ecosystem Development Fund

長野県スタートアップ成長支援事業

state · Nagano Prefectural Government, Innovation Promotion Office

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Nagano with high-growth potential.
What you get
Matching grants up to 5 million JPY for product development and market expansion.
What it actually costs you
Quarterly progress reports and participation in prefectural pitch events.
Common gotcha
Funds are released in tranches based on hitting specific milestones.

Nagano Smart Agriculture Investment Grant

長野県スマート農業推進事業

state · Nagano Department of Agriculture

Who qualifies
Investors or firms integrating IoT and AI into Nagano's fruit and vegetable production.
What you get
Subsidies covering 50% of costs for automated machinery and sensor networks.
What it actually costs you
Must partner with a local agricultural cooperative (JA).
Common gotcha
The technology must be proven to reduce labor costs by at least 15%.

Investing in Nagano's tourism sector

Nagano Traditional Inn Renovation Loan

長野県旅館・ホテル経営基盤強化資金

state · Nagano Prefectural Credit Guarantee Association

Who qualifies
Owners or investors renovating traditional inns to meet international standards.
What you get
Low-interest loans with a 10-year repayment term and interest rate subsidies.
What it actually costs you
Collateral and a business plan focusing on inbound tourism.
Common gotcha
Renovations must comply with strict prefectural seismic retrofitting standards.

Nagano Tourism Promotion Grant

長野県観光誘客促進事業

state · Nagano Tourism Organization

Who qualifies
Private firms running multi-day tourism experiences in rural Nagano.
What you get
Marketing support and direct funding for digital promotion campaigns.
What it actually costs you
Detailed ROI projections and proof of target audience reach.
Common gotcha
Must show alignment with the 'Nagano Brand' strategy.
Gifu岐阜県

Gifu offers unique incentives for investors focusing on manufacturing, renewable energy, and regional revitalization, often providing lower entry costs than Tokyo or Osaka.

Growing my business here

Gifu Prefecture Corporate Location Promotion Subsidy

岐阜県企業立地促進補助金

state · Gifu Prefectural Government, Commerce and Industry Labor Department

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new manufacturing plants or R&D centers in Gifu.
What you get
Subsidies covering a percentage of land acquisition and facility construction costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local employment creation, and multi-year reporting.
Common gotcha
Requires a minimum number of new local hires to qualify for the full tier of funding.

Gifu Startup Support Fund

岐阜県スタートアップ支援資金

state · Gifu Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Gifu with innovative business models.
What you get
Low-interest loans and credit guarantees to reduce initial capital risk.
What it actually costs you
Business registration in Gifu and a rigorous audit of the startup's financial projections.
Common gotcha
The interest rate is low but the documentation for the credit guarantee is extensive.

Gifu Manufacturing Innovation Grant

岐阜県ものづくり革新補助金

state · Gifu Industrial Research Institute

Who qualifies
SMEs in the manufacturing sector investing in new, high-tech machinery.
What you get
Up to 50% reimbursement on equipment purchase costs for upgrading production lines.
What it actually costs you
Application during specific windows, proof of purchase, and technical impact report.
Common gotcha
Must be applied for before the equipment is ordered; retroactive claims are rejected.

Living and working in the region

Gifu Migration and Employment Support 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 specific high-demand jobs.
What you get
Up to 1 million JPY for families or 600,000 JPY for individuals.
What it actually costs you
Proof of residency change and employment contract in Gifu.
Common gotcha
You must stay in the job and the prefecture for at least 5 years or face repayment.

Gifu Child-Rearing Support Card (Gifu-ko)

ぎふっこカード

state · Gifu Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Families with children under 18 living in Gifu.
What you get
Discounts at participating local shops, restaurants, and cultural facilities.
What it actually costs you
Application at municipal office; free to obtain.
Common gotcha
Discounts vary widely by merchant; always check if the sticker is at the register.
Shizuoka静岡県

Shizuoka is a strategic hub for high-tech manufacturing and green energy investment, offering unique tax incentives and infrastructure support for investors looking to establish a footprint between Tokyo and Nagoya.

Growing my business in Shizuoka

Shizuoka Prefecture Corporate Tax Exemption for Advanced Industries

静岡県企業立地促進助成金

state · Shizuoka Prefectural Government, Department of Economic and Industrial Affairs

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new manufacturing or R&D facilities in designated industrial zones.
What you get
Exemption or reduction of local corporate taxes for up to 5 years.
What it actually costs you
Requires a detailed investment plan and proof of local hiring targets.
Common gotcha
The incentive is strictly tied to the number of local residents hired.

Shizuoka Startup Growth Support Fund

静岡県スタートアップ成長支援事業

state · Shizuoka Industrial Foundation

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Shizuoka with innovative technology or service models.
What you get
Matching grants up to 5 million JPY for product development and market expansion.
What it actually costs you
Requires a business pitch and a 1:1 matching investment from the applicant.
Common gotcha
The application window is very narrow, usually opening only once per fiscal year.

Shizuoka Green Energy Investment Incentive

静岡県次世代エネルギー導入促進事業

state · Shizuoka Prefecture Environment Bureau

Who qualifies
Investors installing solar, hydrogen, or biomass energy systems in commercial facilities.
What you get
Up to 30% of installation costs covered as a subsidy.
What it actually costs you
Requires environmental impact assessment reports and certified equipment.
Common gotcha
Must be installed by a prefecture-approved contractor.

Shizuoka Global Market Entry Support

静岡県海外展開支援事業

state · Shizuoka Prefecture Trade Promotion Association

Who qualifies
SMEs in Shizuoka looking to export local products to international markets.
What you get
Subsidies for trade show participation and international marketing consulting.
What it actually costs you
Application fee of 10,000 JPY and proof of export readiness.
Common gotcha
Funds are often exhausted within weeks of the fiscal year start.

Land and Infrastructure support

Shizuoka Industrial Park Land Lease Subsidy

静岡県工業団地用地取得支援

state · Shizuoka Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Investors purchasing or leasing land in designated prefectural industrial parks.
What you get
Discounted land rates and infrastructure connection fee waivers.
What it actually costs you
Requires a commitment to maintain operations for at least 10 years.
Common gotcha
If you vacate the property early, you must repay the subsidy with interest.

Shizuoka Smart City Pilot Project

静岡県スマートシティ推進事業

state · Shizuoka Prefectural Government, Digital Strategy Division

Who qualifies
Tech investors testing IoT, AI, or autonomous transport solutions in Shizuoka city.
What you get
Access to public data sets and regulatory sandboxes for testing.
What it actually costs you
Must provide a detailed research report to the prefecture upon completion.
Common gotcha
The regulatory sandbox is limited to specific zones in the capital.
Aichi愛知県

Aichi is the industrial heart of Japan, offering unique incentives for investors focusing on manufacturing, robotics, and aerospace innovation.

Growing my business in Aichi

Aichi Prefecture Business Location Promotion Subsidy

愛知県企業立地促進補助金

state · Aichi Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Companies establishing or expanding manufacturing or R&D facilities in Aichi.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 10-20% of capital investment costs for new facilities.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local employment, and strict environmental compliance documentation.
Common gotcha
Must apply before construction begins; retroactive applications are strictly rejected.

Nagoya City Startup Support Program

名古屋市スタートアップ支援事業

municipal · Nagoya City Economic Bureau

Who qualifies
Startups registered in Nagoya focusing on AI, robotics, or aerospace.
What you get
Access to subsidized office space and matching grants for R&D projects.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck, financial statements, and participation in city-led networking events.
Common gotcha
The competitive selection process happens only twice a year.

Aichi Prefecture Corporate Tax Reduction for Innovation

愛知県法人税減税措置

state · Aichi Prefectural Tax Office

Who qualifies
Companies investing in designated 'Innovation Zones' within Aichi.
What you get
Reduced prefectural corporate tax rates for up to 5 years.
What it actually costs you
Annual tax filing with specific documentation proving investment in local R&D.
Common gotcha
Does not apply to national corporate tax, only the prefectural portion.

Aichi Robotics and Automation Grant

愛知県ロボット導入支援補助金

state · Aichi Department of Industry and Labor

Who qualifies
SMEs implementing robotics to automate manufacturing processes.
What you get
Up to 5 million JPY for equipment purchase and installation.
What it actually costs you
Three quotes from vendors and a post-implementation efficiency report.
Common gotcha
The equipment must be sourced from approved local vendors to qualify.

Finding and keeping the right people

Aichi Foreign Talent Recruitment Subsidy

愛知県外国人材雇用支援補助金

state · Aichi Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Companies hiring international professionals in technical fields.
What you get
Partial reimbursement for recruitment agency fees and visa processing costs.
What it actually costs you
Proof of employment contract and residence status documentation.
Common gotcha
Only applies to employees with specific technical or engineering visas.

Nagoya City Internship Matching Program

名古屋市インターンシップマッチング事業

municipal · Nagoya City

Who qualifies
Local SMEs looking to host university students for internships.
What you get
Financial coverage for intern stipends and administrative support.
What it actually costs you
Submission of an internship curriculum and mentor assignment.
Common gotcha
Internships must be at least 2 weeks long to qualify for the subsidy.
Mie三重県

Mie offers unique tax incentives for high-tech manufacturing and renewable energy investments, leveraging its strategic position between the Kansai and Chubu economic hubs.

Growing my business in Mie

Mie Prefecture Corporate Tax Exemption for Strategic Industries

三重県企業立地促進補助金

state · Mie Prefectural Government, Department of Commerce and Industry

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new manufacturing or R&D facilities in designated industrial clusters.
What you get
Exemption or reduction of local corporate taxes for up to 5 years based on capital investment size.
What it actually costs you
Requires a detailed business plan and proof of local hiring targets; 3-6 month approval process.
Common gotcha
The tax break is contingent on meeting specific local employment quotas; failing to hit these triggers a clawback.

Mie Startup Support Grant

三重県スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Mie Industrial Support Center

Who qualifies
Startups registered in Mie with innovative business models in digital transformation or green tech.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY in matching grants for initial operational expenses.
What it actually costs you
Requires a pitch deck and a 1:1 matching fund commitment.
Common gotcha
Funds are strictly for equipment and marketing; cannot be used for payroll.

Investing in the green transition

Mie Renewable Energy Infrastructure Subsidy

三重県再生可能エネルギー導入促進事業

state · Mie Prefectural Government, Environmental Policy Division

Who qualifies
Investors installing solar, wind, or biomass facilities within Mie prefectural borders.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 15% of installation costs for commercial-scale renewable projects.
What it actually costs you
Requires environmental impact assessment reports and grid connection permits.
Common gotcha
The project must be connected to the local grid to qualify for the subsidy.

Mie Hydrogen Society Promotion Fund

三重県水素社会推進基金

state · Mie Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Investors and companies developing hydrogen supply chains or fuel cell applications in the prefecture.
What you get
Low-interest loans and direct grants for R&D in hydrogen storage and transport.
What it actually costs you
Requires partnership with a local Mie-based research institution.
Common gotcha
Strict reporting requirements on technical milestones every quarter.
Shiga滋賀県

Shiga offers unique incentives for investors focusing on environmental technology and sustainable manufacturing near Lake Biwa, balancing industrial growth with strict ecological preservation.

Growing my business in Shiga

Shiga Prefecture New Industry Creation Subsidy

滋賀県新産業創造補助金

state · Shiga Prefectural Government, Commerce and Industry Division

Who qualifies
Small and medium enterprises investing in R&D for next-generation environmental or medical tech.
What you get
Up to 50% of eligible R&D costs, capped at 5 million JPY per fiscal year.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local employment, and 3-month application review period.
Common gotcha
Must demonstrate direct contribution to the local Shiga economy, not just general R&D.

Shiga Prefecture Startup Support Loan

滋賀県創業支援融資

state · Shiga Credit Guarantee Association

Who qualifies
New entrepreneurs establishing a business within Shiga prefecture.
What you get
Low-interest loans with reduced credit guarantee fees for the first 3 years.
What it actually costs you
Standard bank documentation, business registration, and a meeting with a local chamber of commerce advisor.
Common gotcha
Requires a certified business plan approved by a local municipal office.

Lake Biwa Environmental Technology Incentive

びわ湖環境技術投資促進制度

state · Shiga Environmental Policy Department

Who qualifies
Investors building facilities that meet strict Lake Biwa water quality protection standards.
What you get
Tax credits on fixed assets and preferential access to prefectural industrial zones.
What it actually costs you
Environmental impact assessment report and annual compliance monitoring.
Common gotcha
Compliance standards are significantly higher than national environmental laws.

Shiga Digital Transformation (DX) Grant

滋賀県DX推進補助金

state · Shiga Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Existing Shiga-based firms upgrading legacy systems to cloud or AI-based platforms.
What you get
Reimbursement of up to 2 million JPY for software procurement and consultant fees.
What it actually costs you
Proof of purchase and a post-implementation performance report.
Common gotcha
Must show clear productivity improvement metrics to qualify for full reimbursement.

Living and working in Shiga

Otsu City Childcare Subsidy for Working Parents

大津市子育て支援補助金

municipal · Otsu City Hall

Who qualifies
Working parents residing in Otsu with children under school age.
What you get
Monthly stipend for private daycare costs not covered by national insurance.
What it actually costs you
Proof of employment and residency certificate.
Common gotcha
Income threshold applies; high-earning investors may be excluded.

Shiga Prefectural Eco-Renovation Grant

滋賀県住宅省エネ改修補助金

state · Shiga Housing Bureau

Who qualifies
Homeowners in Shiga retrofitting properties for energy efficiency.
What you get
Up to 500,000 JPY for insulation and solar panel installation.
What it actually costs you
Contractor quotes and pre-renovation energy audit.
Common gotcha
Must use a prefecture-approved local contractor.
Kyoto京都府

Kyoto offers unique tax incentives and support for investors focusing on traditional industries, sustainable tourism, and high-tech startups in the Kansai region.

Growing my business in Kyoto

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 registered in Kyoto with less than 5 years of operation.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for business expansion or R&D costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan and three years of financial projections required.
Common gotcha
The application window is very short, usually opening only once per fiscal year in April.

Kyoto Traditional Industry Innovation Grant

京都府伝統産業革新助成金

state · Kyoto Prefectural Department of Commerce

Who qualifies
Businesses involved in traditional Kyoto crafts looking to modernize production.
What you get
Subsidies covering 50% of equipment upgrade costs up to 1 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Proof of traditional craft certification and local tax payment certificates.
Common gotcha
Requires a recommendation letter from a local craft association.

Kyoto Green Business Tax Incentive

京都府環境配慮型企業税制優遇

state · Kyoto Prefectural Tax Office

Who qualifies
Companies investing in energy-efficient infrastructure within Kyoto prefecture.
What you get
Reduction in local corporate tax rates by up to 15%.
What it actually costs you
Energy audit report from a certified Kyoto-based consultant.
Common gotcha
Must be applied for before the capital expenditure is finalized.

Kizugawa Tech Corridor Investment Subsidy

木津川テクノコリドー投資促進補助金

state · Kyoto Prefecture Industrial Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Tech firms setting up offices in the southern Kyoto science corridor.
What you get
Reimbursement of up to 30% of office rental costs for the first 24 months.
What it actually costs you
Minimum 5-year lease agreement and local hiring quota.
Common gotcha
Strict enforcement of local hiring numbers; missing targets results in clawback.

Investing in Kyoto's unique heritage

Kyoto Machiya Preservation Loan

京町家保全改修融資

state · Kyoto City/Prefecture Joint Fund

Who qualifies
Investors purchasing and renovating traditional Machiya townhouses for commercial use.
What you get
Low-interest loans at 0.5% APR for renovation costs.
What it actually costs you
Strict adherence to historical preservation guidelines during renovation.
Common gotcha
Renovation plans must be approved by the Kyoto City Cultural Heritage board.

Kyoto Tourism Digital Transformation Grant

京都観光DX推進補助金

state · Kyoto Prefectural Tourism Bureau

Who qualifies
Tourism-related businesses implementing multilingual booking or AI guidance systems.
What you get
Up to 500,000 JPY for software implementation.
What it actually costs you
Submission of a digital impact assessment report.
Common gotcha
Must use vendors approved by the Prefectural Tourism Bureau.

Kyoto Cultural Patronage Tax Deduction

京都文化芸術寄附金税額控除

state · Kyoto Prefectural Culture and Sports Department

Who qualifies
Investors/donors supporting Kyoto-based cultural events or arts organizations.
What you get
Additional 5% local tax deduction on top of national charitable deductions.
What it actually costs you
Official receipt from a certified cultural non-profit.
Common gotcha
Only applies to organizations registered in the Kyoto Prefecture Cultural Registry.
Osaka大阪府

Osaka offers unique tax incentives and business subsidies for investors focusing on the Kansai region's vibrant SME and tech-startup ecosystem.

Growing my business in Osaka

Osaka Startup Support Subsidy

大阪府スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Osaka Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
New businesses registered in Osaka prefecture with high growth potential.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for operational expansion or R&D costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, 3 months processing, requires local tax compliance.
Common gotcha
The application window is very short, usually opening only once per fiscal year.

Osaka SME Credit Guarantee System

大阪府中小企業信用保証制度

state · Osaka Credit Guarantee Corporation

Who qualifies
Small and medium enterprises operating within Osaka prefecture.
What you get
State-backed credit guarantees to secure low-interest bank loans.
What it actually costs you
Guarantee fee (varies by risk), financial statements, 1 month approval.
Common gotcha
You must apply through your main bank, not directly to the prefecture.

Osaka Innovation Hub Grant

大阪イノベーションハブ助成金

state · Osaka Innovation Hub

Who qualifies
Tech companies collaborating with local universities or research institutes.
What you get
Matching grants up to 50% of project costs for collaborative innovation.
What it actually costs you
Partnership agreement, project audit, 2 months processing.
Common gotcha
Requires a formal partnership with an Osaka-based academic institution.

Osaka Corporate Relocation Incentive

大阪府企業立地促進補助金

state · Osaka Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Foreign or domestic companies moving headquarters to Osaka.
What you get
Tax credits and partial reimbursement of office rental costs for 3 years.
What it actually costs you
Proof of lease, employment verification, 4 months processing.
Common gotcha
Must maintain office space for a minimum of 5 years to avoid clawback.

Perks for living and investing here

Osaka Prefectural Childcare Subsidy

大阪府子育て支援補助金

state · Osaka Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Working parents residing in Osaka with children under 6.
What you get
Monthly stipend for private daycare costs.
What it actually costs you
Income tax records, birth certificate, annual renewal.
Common gotcha
Eligibility changes based on the specific municipality (ward) within Osaka.

Osaka Home Energy Retrofit Rebate

大阪府住宅省エネ改修補助金

state · Osaka Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Homeowners in Osaka upgrading to solar or high-efficiency insulation.
What you get
Rebate covering up to 30% of renovation costs.
What it actually costs you
Contractor receipts, energy audit report, 2 months processing.
Common gotcha
Work must be performed by a registered Osaka-based contractor.
Hyogo兵庫県

Hyogo offers unique tax incentives and business support for foreign investors looking to establish a footprint in the Kansai region, particularly in the medical and energy sectors.

Setting up shop in Hyogo

Hyogo Prefecture Foreign Company Establishment Subsidy

兵庫県外国企業誘致補助金

state · Hyogo Prefectural Government, Industrial Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Foreign-affiliated companies establishing a new regional headquarters or R&D center in Hyogo.
What you get
Partial coverage of office rental costs and personnel expenses for up to 3 years.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of foreign capital, and 3-6 months of review time.
Common gotcha
You must apply before signing your office lease agreement.

Kobe City Startup Visa Program

神戸市スタートアップビザ

municipal · Kobe City Government

Who qualifies
Foreign entrepreneurs intending to launch a business in Kobe.
What you get
A 6-month residency status to prepare for business launch without immediate capital requirements.
What it actually costs you
Submission of a comprehensive business plan and regular progress reports to the city.
Common gotcha
This is a temporary status; you must meet standard investor visa requirements within 6 months.

Hyogo Enterprise Zone Tax Incentives

兵庫県企業立地促進税制

state · Hyogo Prefectural Tax Office

Who qualifies
Companies investing in designated industrial zones within Hyogo.
What you get
Corporate tax credits and fixed asset tax reductions for 5 years.
What it actually costs you
Registration with the prefectural office and proof of capital investment in local infrastructure.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific designated zones; check the map before purchasing land.

Innovation and R&D Grants

Hyogo Medical/Health Tech Innovation Grant

ひょうごメディカル・ヘルスケア産業創出支援事業

state · Hyogo Prefectural Industrial Technology Center

Who qualifies
Investors and companies working on medical device or health-tech R&D in Hyogo.
What you get
Matching grants covering up to 50% of R&D costs.
What it actually costs you
Rigorous technical audit and quarterly financial reporting.
Common gotcha
Requires collaboration with a local university or research institute.

Kobe Biomedical Innovation Cluster Support

神戸医療産業都市支援

municipal · Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe

Who qualifies
Biotech firms setting up R&D facilities on Port Island.
What you get
Access to shared laboratory facilities and networking with major pharmaceutical firms.
What it actually costs you
Membership fees and strict compliance with cluster safety regulations.
Common gotcha
The cluster is highly competitive; space is limited to high-impact projects.
Nara奈良県

Nara offers unique tax incentives and land grants for investors focusing on traditional craft preservation and sustainable tourism infrastructure.

Growing my business here

Nara Traditional Industry Promotion Subsidy

奈良県伝統的工芸品産業振興補助金

state · Nara Prefectural Government, Commerce and Industry Division

Who qualifies
Small to medium enterprises investing in traditional Nara crafts like calligraphy brushes or lacquerware.
What you get
Up to 50% of capital expenditure for facility upgrades, capped at ¥2 million.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local employment, and 3 months of processing time.
Common gotcha
The application window is extremely short, usually opening only in April.

Nara Startup Innovation Grant

奈良県スタートアップ創出支援事業

state · Nara Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
New businesses registered in Nara focusing on digital transformation or tourism tech.
What you get
Direct grant of up to ¥1 million for initial operational costs.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck, tax residency proof, and a commitment to maintain operations in Nara for 3 years.
Common gotcha
You must prove that your business model has a clear connection to Nara's regional economy.

Nara Tourism Infrastructure Low-Interest Loan

奈良県観光施設整備資金融資

state · Nara Prefectural Credit Guarantee Corporation

Who qualifies
Investors renovating historic buildings for boutique hotel or cultural center use.
What you get
Low-interest loans at 0.5% fixed rate for up to 10 years.
What it actually costs you
Collateral requirements and a rigorous building safety inspection report.
Common gotcha
Renovations must comply with strict historic preservation guidelines which can increase costs.

Nara Prefecture Renewable Energy Investment Subsidy

奈良県再生可能エネルギー導入促進補助金

state · Nara Prefectural Environmental Department

Who qualifies
Commercial property owners installing solar panels or biomass heaters.
What you get
Rebate of 20% of installation costs, up to ¥500,000.
What it actually costs you
Receipts from certified local contractors and energy output projections.
Common gotcha
You cannot combine this with certain national tax credits for the same equipment.

Keeping my tax burden low

Nara Prefecture Corporate Enterprise Tax Reduction

奈良県法人事業税減免制度

state · Nara Prefectural Tax Office

Who qualifies
Companies that relocate their headquarters to Nara from outside the prefecture.
What you get
3-year exemption from local corporate enterprise tax.
What it actually costs you
Proof of staff relocation and registration of principal office in Nara.
Common gotcha
If you reduce your headcount below the threshold during the 3 years, you must repay the tax saved.

Nara Local Employment Incentive

奈良県雇用促進奨励金

state · Nara Labor Bureau

Who qualifies
Businesses hiring local Nara residents for full-time roles.
What you get
¥300,000 per new hire, paid in two installments over 18 months.
What it actually costs you
Employment contracts and social insurance enrollment records.
Common gotcha
The employee must be a resident of Nara for at least 6 months prior to hiring.
Wakayama和歌山県

Wakayama offers unique incentives for investors focusing on regional revitalization, renewable energy, and the prefecture's specialized agricultural and tourism sectors.

Growing my business in Wakayama

Wakayama Prefecture Corporate Location Promotion Subsidy

和歌山県企業立地促進補助金

state · Wakayama Prefectural Government, Department of Commerce and Industry

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new offices, factories, or research facilities in the prefecture.
What you get
Subsidies covering a percentage of capital investment and employment costs, often up to several hundred million yen.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local employment, and rigorous multi-year audit compliance.
Common gotcha
The subsidy is paid post-investment; you must have significant liquidity to fund the initial phase.

和歌山県スタートアップ支援

state · Wakayama Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Wakayama with innovative business models.
What you get
Mentorship, office space subsidies, and access to local venture capital networks.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck submission and participation in prefecture-run accelerator programs.
Common gotcha
High competition for limited slots; requires a strong local social impact angle.

Wakayama Renewable Energy Promotion Grant

和歌山県再生可能エネルギー導入促進事業費補助金

state · Wakayama Prefectural Government, Environment Policy Division

Who qualifies
Investors in solar, wind, or biomass projects within the prefecture.
What you get
Partial reimbursement for equipment installation and grid connection fees.
What it actually costs you
Environmental impact assessment and local community consultation records.
Common gotcha
Strict zoning regulations in mountainous areas can delay project approval.

Wakayama Tourism Infrastructure Low-Interest Loan

和歌山県観光施設整備資金貸付

state · Wakayama Prefectural Government, Tourism Division

Who qualifies
Investors renovating or building tourism facilities (hotels, glamping sites) near Kumano Kodo.
What you get
Long-term, low-interest financing compared to commercial bank rates.
What it actually costs you
Collateral and a business plan demonstrating contribution to local tourism.
Common gotcha
Must adhere to specific design guidelines to maintain the aesthetic of the World Heritage region.

Investing in Wakayama's land and produce

Wakayama Smart Agriculture Promotion Grant

和歌山県スマート農業推進事業

state · Wakayama Prefectural Government, Agriculture and Forestry Department

Who qualifies
Investors or farm operators implementing IoT, AI, or automated machinery in citrus or fruit cultivation.
What you get
Up to 50% coverage of costs for smart farming equipment.
What it actually costs you
Technical training for staff and data reporting on yield improvements.
Common gotcha
Requires integration with the prefecture's agricultural data platform.

Wakayama Forestry Management Support

和歌山県林業経営支援

state · Wakayama Prefectural Government, Forestry Division

Who qualifies
Investors purchasing or managing forest land for sustainable timber production.
What you get
Subsidies for forest thinning, road construction, and equipment acquisition.
What it actually costs you
Long-term forest management plan approved by the prefecture.
Common gotcha
Very long investment horizon; liquidity is extremely low.
Tottori鳥取県

Tottori offers unique tax incentives and relocation grants for investors looking to establish remote offices or sustainable businesses in Japan's least populated prefecture.

Growing my business in Tottori

Tottori Prefecture Corporate Location Promotion Subsidy

鳥取県企業立地促進補助金

state · Tottori Prefectural Government, Industrial Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Companies establishing a new office or factory in Tottori with at least 5 new local hires.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 20% of capital investment costs, capped at 100 million yen.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of investment, and a 3-year employment commitment.
Common gotcha
The subsidy is paid in arrears after the investment is verified and hiring targets are met.

Tottori Satellite Office Establishment Grant

鳥取県サテライトオフィス設置支援事業

state · Tottori Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
IT or creative companies setting up satellite offices in rural Tottori municipalities.
What you get
Up to 3 million yen for office renovation and equipment costs.
What it actually costs you
Lease agreement for a commercial property and local government approval.
Common gotcha
You must prove that the office will facilitate remote work for employees residing in the prefecture.

Tottori Startup Incubation Program

鳥取県スタートアップ創出支援事業

state · Tottori Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Early-stage entrepreneurs or SMEs launching innovative projects in Tottori.
What you get
Mentorship, office space, and seed funding up to 1 million yen.
What it actually costs you
Pitching your business model to a committee and quarterly progress reports.
Common gotcha
Requires physical presence in the Tottori incubation hub for the first 6 months.

Tottori Tourism Infrastructure Investment Credit

鳥取県観光関連施設整備補助金

state · Tottori Tourism and Exchange Bureau

Who qualifies
Investors renovating traditional buildings into high-end tourist accommodations.
What you get
Tax credits and direct grants covering 1/3 of renovation costs.
What it actually costs you
Strict adherence to local building codes and historic preservation guidelines.
Common gotcha
Must be located in designated 'Tourism Promotion Zones' within the prefecture.

Living and tax perks

Tottori Prefectural Housing Renovation Grant

鳥取県住宅リフォーム支援事業

state · Tottori Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Residents or investors renovating properties to improve energy efficiency or earthquake resistance.
What you get
Up to 500,000 yen in subsidies for renovation work.
What it actually costs you
Contract with a local Tottori-based construction firm.
Common gotcha
Must be applied for before the renovation work begins.

Tottori Child-Rearing Support Passport

鳥取県子育て応援パスポート

state · Tottori Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Families with children under 18 living in Tottori.
What you get
Discounts at over 1,000 local businesses, restaurants, and retail stores.
What it actually costs you
Free registration via the official app or physical card.
Common gotcha
Discounts vary widely by merchant; always check the sticker at the entrance.

Tottori Solar Power Installation Subsidy

鳥取県住宅用太陽光発電システム設置補助金

state · Tottori Environment and Energy Division

Who qualifies
Homeowners or commercial property owners installing solar panels.
What you get
Fixed subsidy of 50,000 yen per installation.
What it actually costs you
Proof of purchase and installation by a certified local contractor.
Common gotcha
Limited annual budget; applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tottori Agri-Business Low-Interest Loan

鳥取県農業経営改善資金

state · Tottori Prefectural Agriculture and Forestry Union

Who qualifies
Investors entering the Tottori agricultural sector with a modern business plan.
What you get
Loans with interest rates as low as 0.5% for equipment and land.
What it actually costs you
Comprehensive agricultural business plan and collateral.
Common gotcha
Requires approval from the local Agricultural Committee.
Shimane島根県

Shimane offers unique incentives for investors looking to revitalize rural economies, focusing on tech-relocation and sustainable local industry growth.

Growing my business in Shimane

Shimane Corporate Relocation and Expansion Subsidy

島根県企業立地促進補助金

state · Shimane Prefectural Government, Department of Commerce and Industry

Who qualifies
Companies establishing a new office or factory in Shimane with a minimum of 5 new local hires.
What you get
Up to 50 million JPY in capital investment subsidies depending on the scale of employment.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local hiring, and 3-month application review period.
Common gotcha
The subsidy is paid in installments based on verified hiring milestones, not as a lump sum upfront.

Shimane IT/Digital Hub Incentive

島根県IT産業立地支援事業

state · Shimane Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
IT and software development firms setting up a satellite office in Matsue or Izumo.
What you get
Subsidized office rent for the first 3 years and tax exemptions on local business tax.
What it actually costs you
Proof of remote work infrastructure and local staff training programs.
Common gotcha
Must maintain a minimum number of full-time employees residing in Shimane.

Shimane Startup Support Fund

しまねスタートアップ支援事業

state · Shimane Industrial Promotion Foundation

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Shimane with innovative business models.
What you get
Matching grants up to 2 million JPY for product development and marketing.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck, financial projections, and participation in mandatory mentorship sessions.
Common gotcha
The grant requires a 1:1 matching contribution from the investor/founder.

Shimane Renewable Energy Investment Credit

島根県再生可能エネルギー導入促進事業

state · Shimane Prefectural Environment Bureau

Who qualifies
Businesses investing in solar or biomass energy facilities within the prefecture.
What you get
Low-interest loans and tax credits covering 15% of installation costs.
What it actually costs you
Environmental impact assessment and proof of grid connection.
Common gotcha
Requires adherence to strict local zoning laws for land use.

Community-linked investment opportunities

Shimane Tourism Infrastructure Grant

島根県観光魅力向上支援事業

state · Shimane Tourism Association

Who qualifies
Investors renovating traditional buildings into boutique hotels or tourist facilities.
What you get
Grants covering 30% of renovation costs up to 10 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Architectural plans, building permits, and a commitment to preserve local heritage.
Common gotcha
Must obtain approval from the local historical preservation committee.

Shimane Smart Agriculture Investment Subsidy

島根県スマート農業導入支援

state · Shimane Prefectural Agricultural Department

Who qualifies
Agri-tech investors implementing automated farming or drone technology.
What you get
Subsidies for equipment purchase and technical training for local farmers.
What it actually costs you
Technical feasibility study and partnership agreement with local agricultural cooperatives.
Common gotcha
Equipment must be sourced from approved vendors to qualify for the full subsidy.
Okayama岡山県

Okayama offers specific tax incentives and land subsidies for investors looking to establish manufacturing or R&D bases in the Chugoku region.

Growing my business in Okayama

Okayama Prefecture Corporate Location Promotion Subsidy

岡山県企業立地促進補助金

state · Okayama Prefectural Government, Industrial Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new factories or offices with a minimum investment of 50 million yen and hiring local staff.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 10% of capital investment costs, capped at 500 million yen.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local hiring, and 3-6 months of review time.
Common gotcha
The subsidy is paid after the investment is completed and verified, requiring significant upfront liquidity.

Okayama Startup Growth Fund

岡山県スタートアップ支援事業

state · Okayama Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Okayama with innovative business models.
What you get
Matching grants up to 2 million yen for marketing and product development.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck, financial projections, and annual progress reporting.
Common gotcha
Highly competitive; requires a clear path to regional economic impact.

Okayama Industrial Zone Tax Exemption

岡山県産業集積促進税制

state · Okayama Prefectural Tax Office

Who qualifies
Businesses operating in designated industrial zones within the prefecture.
What you get
Reduction in corporate prefectural tax for up to 5 years.
What it actually costs you
Application filed alongside annual tax returns.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific zones; check the map before signing a lease.

Okayama Prefectural SME Management Loan

岡山県中小企業経営改善資金

state · Okayama Credit Guarantee Association

Who qualifies
Small and medium enterprises facing temporary cash flow issues or needing expansion capital.
What you get
Low-interest loans with prefectural credit guarantees.
What it actually costs you
Financial statements for the last 3 years and a meeting with a local bank.
Common gotcha
Requires a recommendation from the local Chamber of Commerce.

Investing in local infrastructure and sustainability

Okayama Renewable Energy Introduction Subsidy

岡山県再生可能エネルギー導入促進補助金

state · Okayama Environment Bureau

Who qualifies
Businesses installing solar or biomass energy systems at their facilities.
What you get
Up to 30% of installation costs covered.
What it actually costs you
Technical feasibility study and energy output projections.
Common gotcha
Must be compliant with local landscape ordinances.

Okayama Tourism Infrastructure Grant

岡山県観光施設整備支援事業

state · Okayama Tourism Promotion Department

Who qualifies
Investors renovating traditional buildings into boutique hotels or tourist facilities.
What you get
Grants for renovation costs up to 5 million yen.
What it actually costs you
Architectural plans and heritage preservation compliance.
Common gotcha
Strict adherence to local aesthetic guidelines is mandatory.
Hiroshima広島県

Hiroshima offers specific tax incentives and subsidies for investors focusing on green energy, manufacturing innovation, and regional revitalization in the Chugoku area.

Growing my business here

Hiroshima Prefecture New Business Creation Subsidy

広島県新事業創出支援補助金

state · Hiroshima Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
SMEs and startups launching innovative products or services within the prefecture.
What you get
Up to 50% of eligible project costs, capped at 5 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, 3-year financial projection, and proof of local employment.
Common gotcha
The application window is very short, usually opening only once per fiscal year in April.

Hiroshima Green Energy Investment Tax Credit

広島県グリーンエネルギー投資促進税制

state · Hiroshima Prefectural Tax Bureau

Who qualifies
Investors installing solar, biomass, or energy-efficient machinery in Hiroshima factories.
What you get
Additional 5-10% tax deduction on top of national corporate tax incentives.
What it actually costs you
Certification from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) local branch.
Common gotcha
Must be filed alongside your annual corporate tax return; cannot be claimed retroactively.

Hiroshima Startup Visa Program

広島県スタートアップビザ

state · Hiroshima Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Foreign entrepreneurs planning to establish a business in Hiroshima.
What you get
6-month residency permit to prepare for business launch without immediate capital requirements.
What it actually costs you
Submission of a business implementation plan and proof of office space.
Common gotcha
You must transition to a standard Business Manager visa within 6 months.

Hiroshima DX Promotion Grant

広島県DX推進補助金

state · Hiroshima Department of Commerce and Industry

Who qualifies
Manufacturing firms in Hiroshima adopting AI or IoT for production efficiency.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for software implementation and staff training.
What it actually costs you
Requires a digital transformation roadmap and vendor quotes.
Common gotcha
Funds are disbursed only after the project completion report is audited.

Investing in local communities

Hiroshima Rural Business Relocation Subsidy

広島県地方創生移転支援金

state · Hiroshima Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Investors moving corporate headquarters or satellite offices to rural Hiroshima municipalities.
What you get
Lump-sum grant of up to 1 million JPY per employee relocated.
What it actually costs you
Proof of office lease and employment contracts for at least 2 years.
Common gotcha
The office must be located outside the central Hiroshima City core districts.

Hiroshima Tourism Infrastructure Low-Interest Loan

広島県観光施設整備融資

state · Hiroshima Credit Guarantee Association

Who qualifies
Investors renovating traditional inns or building new tourism facilities.
What you get
Interest rate capped at 0.5% for loans up to 50 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Collateral requirements and a feasibility study for tourism impact.
Common gotcha
Requires approval from the local municipal tourism board first.

Hiroshima Agri-Tech Investment Fund

広島県アグリテック投資基金

state · Hiroshima Prefectural Agricultural Department

Who qualifies
Investors in smart-farming technologies within the prefecture.
What you get
Direct equity investment or low-interest debt financing.
What it actually costs you
Quarterly performance reporting and site visits.
Common gotcha
The project must demonstrate measurable reduction in water or fertilizer use.
Yamaguchi山口県

Yamaguchi offers unique tax incentives and business subsidies for investors looking to establish high-tech manufacturing or renewable energy projects in the Chugoku region.

Growing my business in Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi Prefecture Business Location Subsidy

山口県企業立地促進補助金

state · Yamaguchi Prefectural Government, Industrial Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new manufacturing or R&D facilities within the prefecture.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 10-20% of fixed asset investment costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local employment, and 3-6 months of review.
Common gotcha
Must maintain operations for at least 5 years or face clawback provisions.

Yamaguchi Startup Support Fund

山口県スタートアップ支援基金

state · Yamaguchi Industrial Promotion Foundation

Who qualifies
Startups registered in Yamaguchi with innovative technology or service models.
What you get
Low-interest loans and matching grants up to 5 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck, financial projections, and meeting with a local consultant.
Common gotcha
Requires a local mentor or partnership with a Yamaguchi-based firm.

Yamaguchi Digital Transformation Incentive

山口県DX推進事業費補助金

state · Yamaguchi Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
SMEs implementing digital tools to improve productivity.
What you get
Reimbursement of 50% of software/hardware costs up to 1 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Invoices, proof of implementation, and digital audit report.
Common gotcha
Must demonstrate measurable efficiency gains after 12 months.

Yamaguchi Renewable Energy Grant

山口県再生可能エネルギー導入促進事業

state · Yamaguchi Environment Department

Who qualifies
Businesses installing solar, biomass, or wind energy systems.
What you get
Capital grant covering 15% of installation costs.
What it actually costs you
Technical feasibility study and environmental impact assessment.
Common gotcha
Strict zoning regulations apply in protected coastal areas.

Attracting and retaining talent

Yamaguchi Professional Talent Relocation Subsidy

山口県プロフェッショナル人材確保支援事業

state · Yamaguchi Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Companies hiring specialized personnel from outside the prefecture.
What you get
Grant covering 50% of recruitment agency fees up to 500,000 JPY per hire.
What it actually costs you
Employment contract and proof of relocation.
Common gotcha
The hire must remain in the role for at least 2 years.

Yamaguchi Work-Life Balance Certification

山口県ワーク・ライフ・バランス推進企業認証

state · Yamaguchi Labor Bureau

Who qualifies
Companies with flexible working arrangements and high retention rates.
What you get
Preferential treatment in public procurement bids and tax credits.
What it actually costs you
Internal audit of working hours and employee satisfaction survey.
Common gotcha
Documentation of overtime reduction is strictly audited.
Tokushima徳島県

Tokushima offers unique incentives for investors focusing on satellite offices, rural revitalization, and sustainable tech in the Shikoku region.

Setting up shop in Tokushima

Tokushima Satellite Office Promotion 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 and creative companies establishing a satellite office in the prefecture.
What you get
Subsidies for office renovation and initial equipment costs up to 5 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local employment, and 3-year commitment.
Common gotcha
Must maintain the office for at least three years or face a full clawback of funds.

Tokushima Startup Support Program

徳島県スタートアップ支援事業

state · Tokushima Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Tokushima with innovative business models.
What you get
Access to venture capital matching, mentorship, and office space discounts.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck, financial projections, and interview with the selection committee.
Common gotcha
The selection process is highly competitive and happens only twice a year.

Tokushima Corporate Tax Exemption for Regional Investment

徳島県地域経済牽引事業促進税制

state · Tokushima Prefectural Tax Office

Who qualifies
Companies investing in designated regional development zones.
What you get
Corporate tax deductions based on the amount of capital investment and local hiring.
What it actually costs you
Certification from the prefecture as a regional economic promotion project.
Common gotcha
Requires strict documentation of local payroll increases.

Tokushima Smart Agriculture Innovation Grant

徳島県スマート農業推進補助金

state · Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries

Who qualifies
Investors or firms implementing AI/IoT solutions in Tokushima's farming sector.
What you get
Up to 50% coverage of hardware/software costs for smart farming equipment.
What it actually costs you
Project proposal demonstrating productivity gains and local agricultural impact.
Common gotcha
Must partner with a local farmer or agricultural cooperative.

Living and investing in the region

Tokushima Akiya (Vacant House) Renovation Subsidy

徳島県空き家改修補助金

state · Tokushima Prefectural Housing Division

Who qualifies
Investors purchasing and renovating vacant houses in rural Tokushima.
What you get
Grants covering up to 1 million JPY for structural renovations.
What it actually costs you
Proof of property ownership and building safety inspection certificates.
Common gotcha
The property must be located in a designated rural revitalization zone.

Tokushima Corporate Childcare Facility Subsidy

徳島県企業主導型保育事業補助金

state · Tokushima Prefectural Welfare Department

Who qualifies
Companies setting up daycare facilities for employees.
What you get
Subsidies for facility setup and monthly operational costs.
What it actually costs you
Compliance with national and prefectural safety standards for childcare.
Common gotcha
Strict staffing ratio requirements must be met before funding is released.
Kagawa香川県

Kagawa offers unique tax incentives and industrial subsidies for investors looking to leverage its strategic location in the Seto Inland Sea region.

Growing my business in Kagawa

Kagawa Prefecture Industrial Location Promotion Subsidy

香川県企業立地促進補助金

state · Kagawa Prefectural Government, Department of Commerce and Industry

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new manufacturing or R&D facilities within designated industrial zones in Kagawa.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 10-20% of capital investment costs for new facilities.
What it actually costs you
Requires a detailed business plan, proof of local employment creation, and a formal application before construction begins.
Common gotcha
The subsidy is only applicable if you have not yet signed the land purchase agreement.

Kagawa Startup Ecosystem Support

香川県スタートアップ支援

state · Kagawa Industrial Promotion Foundation

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Kagawa with innovative business models.
What you get
Matching grants for product development and access to local venture capital networks.
What it actually costs you
Requires a pitch deck and a 3-year financial projection.
Common gotcha
Focuses heavily on businesses that contribute to local regional revitalization.

Kagawa Credit Guarantee Association Loan Support

香川県信用保証協会

state · Kagawa Credit Guarantee Association

Who qualifies
Small and medium enterprises operating in Kagawa needing credit enhancement for bank loans.
What you get
State-backed guarantee for up to 80-100% of business loans, reducing collateral requirements.
What it actually costs you
Annual guarantee fee based on the loan amount and risk profile.
Common gotcha
The guarantee is not a loan itself; you must still secure the loan from a partner financial institution.

Kagawa Renewable Energy Investment Grant

香川県再生可能エネルギー導入促進事業

state · Kagawa Prefecture Environment Bureau

Who qualifies
Businesses investing in solar, wind, or biomass energy installations within the prefecture.
What you get
Direct cash grants for equipment installation costs.
What it actually costs you
Requires environmental impact assessment documentation and proof of grid connection approval.
Common gotcha
Strict adherence to local zoning laws is mandatory for eligibility.

Living and working in the Seto region

Takamatsu City Remote Work Relocation Subsidy

高松市移住支援金

municipal · Takamatsu City Hall

Who qualifies
Individuals moving to Takamatsu from outside the prefecture to work remotely or start a business.
What you get
Up to 1,000,000 JPY for relocation expenses and initial housing costs.
What it actually costs you
Proof of residency change and a commitment to stay for at least 5 years.
Common gotcha
Must apply within 3 months of moving to the city.

Kagawa Prefecture Child-rearing Support Fund

香川県子育て支援

state · Kagawa Prefecture Health and Welfare Department

Who qualifies
Families residing in Kagawa with children under 18.
What you get
Monthly subsidies for medical expenses and childcare center fees.
What it actually costs you
Income verification documents and local tax certificates.
Common gotcha
The subsidy amount varies based on the specific municipality within Kagawa.

Setouchi Tourism Promotion Grant

瀬戸内観光振興補助金

state · Kagawa Tourism Association

Who qualifies
Investors in tourism-related infrastructure like boutique hotels or cultural experience centers.
What you get
Grants for renovation of traditional buildings into tourist facilities.
What it actually costs you
Requires a plan that highlights the unique cultural value of the Seto Inland Sea.
Common gotcha
Projects must align with the prefecture's tourism branding guidelines.
Ehime愛媛県

Ehime offers unique tax incentives and relocation grants for investors looking to tap into the Seto Inland Sea's maritime, manufacturing, and citrus-tech sectors.

Growing my business in Ehime

Ehime Prefecture Corporate Location Promotion Subsidy

愛媛県企業立地促進助成金

state · Ehime Prefectural Government, Industrial Promotion Division

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new offices or factories in Ehime with a minimum capital investment.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 10-20% of fixed asset investment costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of employment creation, and local tax records.
Common gotcha
Must apply before starting construction or signing property contracts.

Ehime Startup Acceleration Program

愛媛県スタートアップ支援事業

state · Ehime Prefecture Economic and Labor Department

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Ehime focusing on regional innovation.
What you get
Mentorship, office space subsidies, and access to local venture capital networks.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck, 3-year financial projection, and participation in local demo days.
Common gotcha
Requires a physical office presence in Matsuyama or surrounding hubs.

Ehime Credit Guarantee Association Special Loans

愛媛県信用保証協会制度融資

state · Ehime Credit Guarantee Association

Who qualifies
Small and medium enterprises operating within Ehime prefecture.
What you get
State-backed credit guarantees to secure low-interest bank loans.
What it actually costs you
Guarantee fee (varies by risk profile), financial statements, and tax payment certificates.
Common gotcha
The guarantee fee is separate from the bank interest rate.

Ehime DX Promotion Grant

愛媛県デジタル化推進補助金

state · Ehime Prefecture Digital Strategy Division

Who qualifies
Local SMEs investing in digital tools to improve productivity.
What you get
Reimbursement of up to 50% of costs for software and hardware upgrades.
What it actually costs you
Receipts for digital equipment and a report on productivity gains.
Common gotcha
Must demonstrate how the software improves operational efficiency.

Living and investing in the region

Matsuyama City Relocation Subsidy

松山市移住支援金

municipal · Matsuyama City Hall

Who qualifies
Individuals moving from outside Ehime to Matsuyama for work or business.
What you get
One-time grant of up to 1 million JPY for families.
What it actually costs you
Proof of previous residence and employment contract or business registration.
Common gotcha
Must reside in the city for at least 5 years to avoid repayment.

Ehime Prefecture Child-rearing Support Fund

愛媛県子育て支援基金

state · Ehime Prefecture Welfare Department

Who qualifies
Residents with children under 18 living in Ehime.
What you get
Discounts on local services and subsidies for extracurricular activities.
What it actually costs you
Application via local municipal office with residence certificate.
Common gotcha
Benefits vary slightly by specific city/town within the prefecture.

Ehime Tourism Infrastructure Development Incentive

愛媛県観光施設整備支援事業

state · Ehime Prefecture Tourism and Sports Division

Who qualifies
Investors renovating historical buildings or creating new tourism facilities.
What you get
Tax breaks and low-interest loans for tourism-related property development.
What it actually costs you
Architectural plans and tourism impact assessment.
Common gotcha
Must align with the prefecture's tourism branding guidelines.
Kochi高知県

Kochi offers unique tax incentives and infrastructure subsidies for investors focusing on sustainable technology and local manufacturing.

Growing my capital in Kochi

Kochi Industrial Investment Grant

高知県産業投資補助金

state · Kochi Prefectural Government Department of Industry

Who qualifies
Investors setting up manufacturing or R&D facilities within Kochi prefecture.
What you get
Up to 20% reimbursement on capital expenditure for new plant machinery.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local employment, and 3-6 months processing time.
Common gotcha
The grant is disbursed only after the facility is fully operational and audited.

Kochi Green Innovation Tax Credit

高知県グリーンイノベーション税額控除

state · Kochi Prefectural Tax Bureau

Who qualifies
Companies investing in renewable energy or carbon-neutral technology in Kochi.
What you get
Corporate tax reduction of up to 10% on qualifying green investments.
What it actually costs you
Certification from the Prefectural Environmental Board required annually.
Common gotcha
Must be filed alongside your annual prefectural tax return; retroactive claims are difficult.

Kochi Startup Acceleration Fund

高知県スタートアップ支援基金

state · Kochi Industry Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Kochi with high growth potential.
What you get
Interest-free loans up to 5 million JPY for operational expansion.
What it actually costs you
Must present a pitch deck and financial projections to the review committee.
Common gotcha
Strict reporting requirements on fund usage; failure to comply leads to immediate repayment.

Kochi Local Employment Subsidy

高知県雇用創出奨励金

state · Kochi Labor Bureau

Who qualifies
Businesses hiring permanent residents of Kochi prefecture.
What you get
Annual subsidy of 500,000 JPY per full-time hire for the first 3 years.
What it actually costs you
Quarterly payroll documentation and proof of residency for employees.
Common gotcha
Subsidy is forfeited if the employee leaves within the first 12 months.

Setting up shop

Kochi Office Relocation Subsidy

高知県オフィス移転補助金

state · Kochi City Planning Department

Who qualifies
Businesses relocating their headquarters or regional offices to designated Kochi business zones.
What you get
Monthly rent subsidy covering 30% of office costs for 24 months.
What it actually costs you
Lease agreement, proof of business registration, and site inspection.
Common gotcha
Only applies to designated 'Development Zones' within the city.

Kochi DX Digital Voucher

高知県DXデジタル化支援バウチャー

state · Kochi Digital Transformation Office

Who qualifies
SMEs in Kochi looking to upgrade IT infrastructure or adopt cloud software.
What you get
Vouchers worth up to 1 million JPY for software licensing and IT consulting.
What it actually costs you
Selection of a pre-approved IT vendor from the prefectural list.
Common gotcha
Vouchers expire if not used within 6 months of issuance.
Fukuoka福岡県

Fukuoka is Japan's startup hub, offering unique tax incentives and regulatory sandboxes for investors that aren't available in Tokyo or Osaka.

Making my money work in local startups

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 meeting initial capital requirements.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan and proof of funding; requires coordination with city startup support staff.
Common gotcha
This is a preparation visa; you must transition to a standard Business Manager visa within 6 months.

National Strategic Special Zone Tax Incentives

国家戦略特区税制優遇

state · Fukuoka Prefecture / Cabinet Office

Who qualifies
Companies designated as 'Global Startup' entities within the Fukuoka zone.
What you get
Corporate tax deductions and simplified regulatory procedures for new business models.
What it actually costs you
Strict audit of business activities and local employment requirements.
Common gotcha
The tax breaks are contingent on specific job creation targets within the prefecture.

Fukuoka Growth Next Incubation

福岡グロースネクスト

municipal · Fukuoka City & Private Partners

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups and investors looking for co-working and mentorship.
What you get
Subsidized office space and direct access to local venture capital networks.
What it actually costs you
Monthly membership fees; competitive application process.
Common gotcha
Space is highly limited; priority is given to tech-focused ventures.

Supporting local industry and infrastructure

Fukuoka SME Manufacturing Support

福岡県中小企業生産性向上支援

state · Fukuoka Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Small and medium enterprises in the manufacturing sector based in Fukuoka.
What you get
Grants covering up to 50% of costs for upgrading factory automation equipment.
What it actually costs you
Requires a comprehensive productivity improvement plan and financial statements.
Common gotcha
Funds are released on a reimbursement basis after the purchase is verified.

Fukuoka Tourism Development Grant

福岡県観光振興助成金

state · Fukuoka Tourism Bureau

Who qualifies
Investors developing tourism infrastructure or cultural experiences in the prefecture.
What you get
Subsidies for facility renovation and marketing efforts targeting international visitors.
What it actually costs you
Application during the annual budget cycle; strict reporting on visitor metrics.
Common gotcha
Projects must align with the prefecture's specific tourism branding goals.
Saga佐賀県

Saga offers unique incentives for investors focusing on renewable energy, high-tech manufacturing, and regional revitalization, often providing lower entry costs compared to Tokyo or Osaka.

Growing my business in Saga

Saga Prefecture Corporate Location Promotion Subsidy

佐賀県企業立地促進補助金

state · Saga Prefectural Government, Department of Industry and Labor

Who qualifies
Companies establishing or expanding manufacturing, logistics, or R&D facilities in Saga.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 10-20% of capital investment costs for new facilities.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local hiring, and 3-6 months of administrative review.
Common gotcha
Must apply before starting construction; retroactive applications are strictly rejected.

Saga Renewable Energy Business Support Grant

佐賀県再生可能エネルギー導入支援事業

state · Saga Prefectural Government, Environmental Division

Who qualifies
Investors developing solar, biomass, or geothermal projects within Saga prefecture.
What you get
Grants covering a portion of equipment installation and feasibility study costs.
What it actually costs you
Environmental impact assessment report and proof of grid connection agreement.
Common gotcha
Requires strict adherence to local zoning laws which can be restrictive in agricultural zones.

Saga Startup Ecosystem Development Fund

佐賀県スタートアップ支援事業

state · Saga Prefectural Government, Commerce and Industry Division

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups or SMEs relocating to Saga with innovative business models.
What you get
Low-interest loans and matching grants for initial operational expenses.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck, financial projections, and mandatory participation in local networking events.
Common gotcha
The fund prioritizes businesses that collaborate with local Saga-based suppliers.

Saga Industrial Park Rental Subsidy

佐賀県工業団地賃料補助

state · Saga Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Businesses leasing space in designated industrial parks across Saga.
What you get
Discounted rental rates for the first 3 years of operation.
What it actually costs you
Standard lease agreement and proof of business registration in Saga.
Common gotcha
Limited to specific designated zones; check the map before signing a lease.

Finding and training local talent

Saga Local Employment Promotion Subsidy

佐賀県雇用促進助成金

state · Saga Labor Bureau

Who qualifies
Companies hiring permanent staff residing within Saga prefecture.
What you get
Fixed cash incentive per new full-time employee hired.
What it actually costs you
Employment contracts and proof of social insurance enrollment.
Common gotcha
Employees must be hired directly; temp agency staff do not qualify.

Saga Employee Training Grant

佐賀県人材育成支援事業

state · Saga Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Saga-based businesses investing in technical training for their local workforce.
What you get
Reimbursement for 50% of external training costs for employees.
What it actually costs you
Training curriculum outline and receipts for course fees.
Common gotcha
Training must be relevant to the core business operations to be approved.
Nagasaki長崎県

Nagasaki offers unique tax incentives and subsidies for investors focusing on maritime technology, renewable energy, and regional revitalization in rural areas.

Growing my business in Nagasaki

Nagasaki Prefecture Business Expansion Subsidy

長崎県産業立地促進補助金

state · Nagasaki Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new facilities or expanding existing operations within the prefecture.
What you get
Up to 20% of capital investment costs, capped at 500 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, 3-year financial projections, and proof of local hiring.
Common gotcha
Must maintain operations for at least 5 years or face clawback provisions.

Nagasaki Startup Ecosystem Grant

長崎県スタートアップ支援事業

state · Nagasaki Industrial Promotion Foundation

Who qualifies
Startups registered in Nagasaki with innovative tech or service models.
What you get
Direct grants up to 5 million JPY for R&D and market entry.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck, audit of current funding, and proof of residency in the prefecture.
Common gotcha
Requires a local mentor or partnership with a Nagasaki-based university.

Nagasaki Digital Transformation Subsidy

長崎県DX推進補助金

state · Nagasaki Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
SMEs investing in digital infrastructure to improve productivity.
What you get
Reimbursement of 50% of software/hardware costs up to 2 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Quote comparison from at least three vendors.
Common gotcha
Only applies to systems that demonstrate clear productivity gains.

Nagasaki Maritime Innovation Incentive

長崎県海洋産業振興支援

state · Nagasaki Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Investors in offshore wind, shipbuilding tech, or marine logistics.
What you get
Preferential tax rates on corporate income and reduced utility fees.
What it actually costs you
Must pass a technical feasibility review by the prefecture's maritime board.
Common gotcha
Strict environmental compliance standards apply.

Investing in local communities

Nagasaki Vacant House Revitalization Grant

長崎県空き家活用促進事業

state · Nagasaki Prefectural Housing Bureau

Who qualifies
Investors converting abandoned houses into commercial or tourism facilities.
What you get
Up to 3 million JPY for renovation costs.
What it actually costs you
Property title deeds and a renovation plan approved by the local municipality.
Common gotcha
Must ensure the property is not in a designated disaster-prone zone.

Nagasaki Tourism Infrastructure Fund

長崎県観光施設整備支援

state · Nagasaki Tourism Association

Who qualifies
Investors developing boutique hotels or cultural experience centers.
What you get
Low-interest loans (0.5% - 1.2%) for up to 10 years.
What it actually costs you
Feasibility study and alignment with the prefectural tourism master plan.
Common gotcha
Must incorporate local Nagasaki cultural themes in the design.

Nagasaki Remote Work Hub Subsidy

長崎県サテライトオフィス誘致補助金

state · Nagasaki Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Companies setting up remote work offices in rural Nagasaki towns.
What you get
Subsidies for office rent and high-speed internet installation.
What it actually costs you
Proof of hiring at least 2 local residents.
Common gotcha
The office must be located outside the main Nagasaki city center.
Kumamoto熊本県

Kumamoto offers unique tax incentives and land subsidies for investors looking to capitalize on the semiconductor supply chain expansion and regional agricultural tech.

Growing my business in Kumamoto

Kumamoto Semiconductor Industry Cluster Subsidy

熊本県半導体関連産業立地補助金

state · Kumamoto Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Companies establishing or expanding semiconductor-related manufacturing facilities within the prefecture.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 20% of capital investment costs for new plant construction.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, environmental impact assessment, and 3-year employment projection.
Common gotcha
Requires a minimum investment threshold of 500 million yen to qualify for the primary tier.

Kumamoto Prefecture Startup Promotion Loan

熊本県創業支援融資

state · Kumamoto Credit Guarantee Association

Who qualifies
New businesses registered within Kumamoto Prefecture with a viable growth plan.
What you get
Low-interest loans up to 10 million yen with government-backed credit guarantees.
What it actually costs you
Standard business registration documents and a personal guarantee.
Common gotcha
The interest rate subsidy is only applicable if the business maintains local hiring quotas.

Kumamoto Digital Transformation (DX) Grant

熊本県DX推進補助金

state · Kumamoto Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) investing in AI, IoT, or automation tools.
What you get
Reimbursement of 50% of software/hardware costs up to 2 million yen.
What it actually costs you
Proof of purchase and a post-implementation efficiency report.
Common gotcha
Must demonstrate how the technology directly reduces labor hours or increases output.

Kumamoto Smart Agriculture Promotion Grant

熊本県スマート農業推進事業

state · Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries

Who qualifies
Investors or firms partnering with local farmers to implement drone or sensor technology.
What you get
Grant covering up to 1/3 of equipment costs for smart farming hardware.
What it actually costs you
Partnership agreement with a local agricultural cooperative (JA).
Common gotcha
Equipment must be used on land within Kumamoto prefecture boundaries.

Tax breaks and regional perks

Kumamoto Corporate Enterprise Tax Exemption

熊本県法人事業税減免措置

state · Kumamoto Prefectural Tax Office

Who qualifies
Businesses moving their headquarters or primary research facility to Kumamoto.
What you get
3-year exemption on local corporate enterprise taxes.
What it actually costs you
Proof of relocation and registration of the new head office address.
Common gotcha
Does not exempt national corporate taxes, only the prefectural portion.

Kumamoto Local Employment Creation Grant

熊本県雇用創造助成金

state · Kumamoto Labor Bureau

Who qualifies
Businesses hiring permanent staff from the local Kumamoto labor pool.
What you get
500,000 yen per new full-time employee hired.
What it actually costs you
Employment contracts and proof of residency for the new hires.
Common gotcha
Employees must remain on payroll for at least 24 months to avoid clawback.
Oita大分県

Oita offers unique tax incentives for high-tech manufacturing and renewable energy investors, alongside specialized support for businesses tapping into the prefecture's geothermal and tourism sectors.

Growing my business in Oita

Oita Prefecture Corporate Tax Exemption for New Facilities

大分県企業立地促進補助金

state · Oita Prefectural Government, Department of Commerce and Industry

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new manufacturing or R&D facilities in Oita with a minimum investment of 50 million JPY.
What you get
Exemption or reduction of local corporate taxes for up to 5 years and subsidies for facility construction.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local hiring, and 3-6 months of administrative review.
Common gotcha
The incentive is contingent on maintaining a specific headcount of local employees for at least three years.

Oita Startup Acceleration Grant

大分県スタートアップ支援事業

state · Oita Industry Promotion Foundation

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Oita with innovative business models.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY in non-repayable grants for market research and prototype development.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck, financial projections, and mandatory participation in regional networking events.
Common gotcha
Funds are released in tranches based on milestone achievement reports.

Oita Geothermal Energy Investment Subsidy

大分県地熱発電導入促進補助金

state · Oita Prefecture Energy Policy Division

Who qualifies
Investors developing small-to-medium scale geothermal power projects within the prefecture.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 30% of feasibility study costs and equipment installation.
What it actually costs you
Environmental impact assessment and local community consultation records.
Common gotcha
Strict adherence to local hot spring management regulations is required to avoid permit denial.

Investing in tourism and regional assets

Oita Tourism Facility Modernization Loan

大分県観光施設近代化資金

state · Oita Prefecture Tourism Bureau

Who qualifies
Owners of ryokans or tourism-related businesses looking to upgrade facilities for international guests.
What you get
Low-interest loans with a repayment period of up to 15 years.
What it actually costs you
Collateral or credit guarantee association backing and a renovation plan.
Common gotcha
Must demonstrate that improvements will directly increase inbound tourism metrics.

Oita Regional Vitalization Investment Fund

大分県地域活性化ファンド

state · Oita Venture Capital Co., Ltd.

Who qualifies
Businesses operating in rural Oita towns that contribute to local employment and regional branding.
What you get
Equity investment or subordinated loans to stabilize cash flow.
What it actually costs you
Due diligence process and quarterly financial reporting.
Common gotcha
Requires a clear exit strategy or long-term sustainability plan for the local community.
Miyazaki宮崎県

Miyazaki offers unique incentives for investors focusing on renewable energy, agriculture-tech, and regional business expansion in a high-sunlight, low-cost environment.

Growing my business in Miyazaki

Miyazaki Prefecture Corporate Tax Reduction

宮崎県企業立地促進補助金

state · Miyazaki Prefectural Government, Department of Commerce and Industry

Who qualifies
Companies establishing new offices or factories in designated industrial zones.
What you get
Subsidies covering up to 10% of capital investment costs or local tax exemptions for 3-5 years.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, proof of local hiring, and 3 months of application processing.
Common gotcha
Must maintain a minimum number of local full-time employees for at least 5 years.

Miyazaki Startup Ecosystem Support

宮崎県スタートアップ支援事業

state · Miyazaki Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Early-stage startups registered in Miyazaki with innovative business models.
What you get
Grants up to 2 million JPY for market research and prototype development.
What it actually costs you
Pitch deck presentation and quarterly financial reporting.
Common gotcha
Funds are released in tranches based on milestone achievement.

Miyazaki Renewable Energy Investment Grant

宮崎県再生可能エネルギー導入促進事業

state · Miyazaki Prefectural Environment Division

Who qualifies
Investors in solar or biomass energy projects within the prefecture.
What you get
Low-interest loans and partial coverage of equipment installation costs.
What it actually costs you
Environmental impact assessment report and local community consultation records.
Common gotcha
Requires strict adherence to local landscape preservation ordinances.

Miyazaki Smart Agriculture Investment Support

宮崎県スマート農業推進事業

state · Miyazaki Prefectural Agriculture Department

Who qualifies
Investors partnering with local farmers to implement IoT or AI in agriculture.
What you get
Up to 50% subsidy on hardware and software costs for smart farming.
What it actually costs you
Joint application with a local agricultural cooperative (JA).
Common gotcha
The technology must be proven to increase yield or reduce labor by at least 15%.

Finding and training my team

Miyazaki Local Employment Promotion Grant

宮崎県雇用創出奨励金

state · Miyazaki Labor Bureau

Who qualifies
Companies hiring residents of Miyazaki prefecture for permanent roles.
What you get
500,000 JPY per newly hired permanent employee.
What it actually costs you
Proof of residence and employment contracts for at least 12 months.
Common gotcha
Cannot be combined with certain national employment subsidies.

Miyazaki Human Resource Development Grant

宮崎県人材育成補助金

state · Miyazaki Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
SMEs providing specialized technical training to their staff.
What you get
Reimbursement of up to 75% of training provider fees.
What it actually costs you
Training curriculum and attendance logs.
Common gotcha
Training must be conducted by an accredited institution.
Kagoshima鹿児島県

Kagoshima offers unique tax incentives and subsidies for investors focusing on renewable energy, agriculture, and tech startups looking to leverage the region's volcanic resources and logistical connectivity.

Growing my business here

Kagoshima Prefecture Startup Support Subsidy

鹿児島県スタートアップ支援補助金

state · Kagoshima Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
New businesses established in Kagoshima within the last 2 years.
What you get
Up to 2 million JPY for initial operational expenses and marketing.
What it actually costs you
Detailed business plan, 3 months of processing time, and proof of local office registration.
Common gotcha
The subsidy is reimbursement-based; you must pay for expenses first and submit receipts later.

Kagoshima Corporate Tax Reduction Program

鹿児島県法人税減税措置

state · Kagoshima Tax Bureau

Who qualifies
Companies creating at least 5 new local jobs in designated industrial zones.
What you get
Reduction of prefectural corporate tax by up to 50% for 3 years.
What it actually costs you
Annual filing of employment records and local investment proof.
Common gotcha
Must maintain the headcount for the entire duration of the tax break.

Kagoshima Tech Innovation Grant

鹿児島県技術革新助成金

state · Kagoshima Industrial Promotion Center

Who qualifies
SMEs investing in R&D or digital transformation (DX) projects.
What you get
Grant covering 1/2 of R&D costs up to 5 million JPY.
What it actually costs you
Submission of project milestones and quarterly progress reports.
Common gotcha
Requires a clear demonstration of how the technology benefits the local Kagoshima economy.

Investing in the land and energy

Kagoshima Renewable Energy Low-Interest Loan

鹿児島県再生可能エネルギー融資制度

state · Kagoshima Prefectural Government

Who qualifies
Investors developing solar, geothermal, or biomass projects in the prefecture.
What you get
Low-interest loans at 0.5% APR for up to 10 years.
What it actually costs you
Feasibility study and environmental impact assessment documentation.
Common gotcha
Projects must be approved by local municipal councils before loan application.

Kagoshima Smart Agriculture Subsidy

鹿児島県スマート農業導入補助金

state · Department of Agriculture, Kagoshima

Who qualifies
Agri-businesses adopting IoT or automated machinery.
What you get
Up to 30% subsidy on equipment costs.
What it actually costs you
Proof of purchase and technical certification of equipment.
Common gotcha
Equipment must be sourced from approved vendors list.
Okinawa沖縄県

Okinawa offers unique tax incentives and special economic zone benefits for investors looking to tap into the Asia-Pacific market through Japan's only subtropical hub.

Growing my business in the islands

Okinawa Special Free Trade Zone Corporate Tax Deduction

沖縄特別自由貿易地域法人税減免

state · Okinawa Prefecture Department of Commerce, Industry and Labor

Who qualifies
Businesses operating within designated free trade zones in Okinawa.
What you get
35% deduction on corporate income tax for eligible manufacturing and logistics activities.
What it actually costs you
Requires detailed business plan submission and annual audit compliance.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific industries; service-based businesses often do not qualify.

Okinawa Industry Promotion Investment Subsidy

沖縄産業振興投資補助金

state · Okinawa Prefecture

Who qualifies
Companies investing in new facilities or equipment in Okinawa.
What you get
Reimbursement of up to 10-20% of capital investment costs.
What it actually costs you
Requires proof of local hiring and long-term operational commitment.
Common gotcha
Funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis during the fiscal year.

Okinawa IT Business Promotion Subsidy

沖縄ITビジネス促進補助金

state · Okinawa IT Innovation Strategy Center

Who qualifies
IT companies establishing or expanding offices in Okinawa.
What you get
Subsidies for office rent and high-speed internet infrastructure costs.
What it actually costs you
Must maintain a minimum number of full-time local employees.
Common gotcha
The definition of 'IT business' is strictly audited by the prefecture.

Tourism Infrastructure Development Grant

観光インフラ整備助成金

state · Okinawa Tourism and Convention Bureau

Who qualifies
Investors developing high-value tourism facilities or eco-tourism projects.
What you get
Low-interest loans and partial grants for facility construction.
What it actually costs you
Environmental impact assessment reports are mandatory.
Common gotcha
Projects must align with Okinawa's sustainable tourism master plan.

Living the island life as an investor

Okinawa Prefecture Childcare Facility Subsidy

沖縄県保育施設整備支援

state · Okinawa Prefecture Welfare Department

Who qualifies
Investors or business owners providing childcare for employees.
What you get
Grants for setting up on-site daycare facilities.
What it actually costs you
Strict adherence to national safety and staffing standards.
Common gotcha
Paperwork for licensing is notoriously slow.

Okinawa Regional Housing Loan Interest Subsidy

沖縄県住宅ローン利子補給

state · Okinawa Housing Finance Corporation

Who qualifies
Residents purchasing homes in designated development zones.
What you get
Interest rate reduction of 0.5% on top of standard bank loans.
What it actually costs you
Must be a primary residence for at least 5 years.
Common gotcha
Cannot be combined with certain national tax credits.