This week in Small Business Japan
A new section, 'Industry outlook'
I've introduced a new section called 'Industry Outlook' to showcase business trends and ideas for those interested in starting a business in Japan.
Latest
Industry Outlook
What is the Kobutsusho license?: A must for reuse business in Japan
The 'Kobutsusho Kyoka' (古物商許可), or secondhand dealer license in English, is required in Japan for businesses dealing in reuse and recycle legally. This article will explain the license, including how to apply for it, and then discuss the current state of the reuse market in Japan.
This week in Small Business Japan
Are subsidies 'free money?'
I hope you've all had a wonderful start to 2025! I know it's early in the new year, but I've published an article about the Tokyo Startup Subsidy, which is likely to be offered around spring.
For your business
New privacy for KK reps: Here’s how to (but at what cost?)
Since October 2024, Kabushiki Kaisha (KK) or stock corporations in Japan now have the option to remove its representative's home address from the company registry (tohon).
For your business
Small business under 5 years old? Secure advantage of public support
Municipalities offer the 'Business Support Plan for Startups', which helps small businesses under five years old meet a key requirement of startup subsidies, such as the one of Tokyo, on more favourable terms. Pre-establishment businesses can also benefit from reduced registration tax.
For your business
Tokyo Startup Subsidy: What is it and how to apply?
The Startup Subsidy offered by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government is a great funding opportunity for new and small businesses that are less than five years old. It is particularly recommended if you're an (aspiring) entrepreneur tackling social challenges or have a very good business model.
This week in Small Business Japan
Wrap-up of 2024
I hope your business had a successful 2024. Thank you so much for your continued support of Small Business Japan.
This week in Small Business Japan
How to enjoy dealing with #RedTapeJapan
Sample documents are ready for your company address change at the Homukyoku, the first initiative for #RedTapeJapan to help you cut through bureaucracy.
RedTapeJapan
Changing your company address yourself: A guide to the Homukyoku process
Red tape is a fact of doing business in Japan. Even native Japanese speakers often find it confusing, making it even more difficult for those whose first language is not Japanese. So, how does a company change its address?
This week in Small Business Japan
#JapanRedTape, a new tag
I'm currently writing a report for a subsidy of over ¥10 million that we won for a client. This report is required to receive the grant money.
This week in Small Business Japan
Disaster landscape
In November 2011, I spent a month volunteering in Iwate Prefecture, one of the areas affected by the tsunami.
Disaster Preparedness
Beyond the emergency kit: Disaster preparedness for families – certificates, community, and more
Continuing from the previous article, explore unique challenges for families with children in case of natural disaster and learn about preparedness for that.