For your business
HR-Focused MHLW Grants 3/3: Business funding for productivity initiatives
This MHLW grant supports spending on measures that enhance production efficiency for companies implementing 'Work Style Reform' to boost productivity.
This week in Small Business Japan
Why I'm critical about 'subsidies' but 'recommend' grants?
The Japanese government provides two main types of funding to companies: hojokin and joseikin. Generally, funding from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) is called hojokin, while funding from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) is called joseikin.
For your business
HR-Focused MHLW Grants 2/3: For companies converting fixed-term employees to full-time
In the previous article, we introduced an MHLW grant available to companies that employ single mothers and people with disabilities, which can be used for HR purposes. This article explains the grants available to companies that convert fixed-term employees to full-time status.
For your business
HR-Focused MHLW Grants 1/3: For hiring single mothers, individuals with disabilities, and displaced Ukrainians
While Small Business Japan has typically focused on subsidies from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), this article introduces those provided by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW), which promote the improvement of the working environment and conditions at companies.
For your business
Tokyo Startup Subsidy: Difficulty and winning projects
Its distinctive feature is the broader range of eligible uses compared to other general subsidies. However, it is also competitive, and the application process is time-consuming, making it hard to justify the time and effort. To gauge its competitiveness, I reviewed the data.
This week in Small Business Japan
The real test for subsidies is the submission of the activity report
My client received full approval for their subsidy application of ¥11m when the government accepted the activity report! It was such a long journey. While it has been a long process, I am delighted that my client's project is progressing with the support of the subsidy.
Subsidies
Tokyo Startup Subsidy: This week is your last chance to get ready!
The Tokyo Startup Subsidy offers up to ¥4 million to eligible companies. Applications for the spring 2025 round are open until 17 April. However, due to its specific requirements, starting preparations this week is crucial.
This week in Small Business Japan
The evolution of non-profit work in Japan (10 years on)
My interview with Makoto Yamada, the founder and representative of SEIBO Japan, a Japanese non-profit, brought back memories of my time working at an international NGO in Tokyo.
For your business
Setting up business banking in Japan: Foreign business owner's guide
Opening a corporate bank account is a must when doing business in Japan, as it can be used for funding and enhance your company's credibility. We have summarised the types and characteristics of financial institutions in Japan with a list of required documents and conditions.
Voices in Relay
Sip for sustainability: Non-profit Malawi coffee fuels school lunches
The Tokyo-based non-profit SEIBO Japan is making a difference in Malawi, Africa, through its school lunch programme feeding local children. This initiative is driven by the ‘Doing charity by doing business’ concept. Makoto Yamada, the representative, talks about the project.
This week in Small Business Japan
Sing and shout ... until die!
This weekend, I went to see a musical called ‘Rock'n'Roll Reflections on Mythology: the Age of Dharma Decline 2024’ because an acquaintance was performing in it. You probably don't understand what it's about from the title.
For your business
Is being foreign the reason you can't open a corporate bank account in Japan?
Can you really be refused a corporate bank account just because you are a foreigner? To find out, we interviewed an immigration lawyer who has helped foreign business owners manage funding challenges, including opening corporate bank accounts in Japan for years.