#Japan #Tokyo #Product Improvement #Tokyo SME #Certification Aid

Funding for Product Improvement and Certification in Tokyo

The Tokyo Small and Medium Enterprise Support Center, located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has launched a new initiative aimed at boosting the growth of small and medium enterprises in the region. Starting from September 7 to September 30 at 5 PM, businesses can apply for funding to improve their products and obtain necessary certifications. This financial support is a part of the "Product Improvement/Certification Support Project" designed to enhance the competitiveness of local enterprises and strengthen their operational capabilities.

What is the Fund About?

The funds will cover part of the expenses required for modifying self-developed prototypes or already-market products to align with domestic and international market needs. It will also support the expenses associated with obtaining certifications (such as CE marking, ISO, IEC standards, etc.). In light of the growing demand for AI functionalities, this funding can be applied to a wide array of product improvements.

Key Benefits of the Funding

1. Broad Eligibility: Open to all industries, with grants up to 5 million yen available.
2. Software Development Support: Improvement of self-developed software is eligible, allowing for direct labor costs of up to 3.5 million yen to be covered.
3. Separate Applications for Certification: Companies can apply for just the standardisation or certification without needing to improve products.
4. Simultaneous Applications: If multiple certifications are relevant to the same products, businesses can apply for several at once.
5. Pricing Strategy Assistance: Successful applicants will receive pro bono support for pricing strategies that reflect their technology and value-added features.

Who Can Apply?

This program targets businesses actively conducting significant operations within Tokyo or individuals planning to start a business in Tokyo.

Grant Amounts and Ratios

• - Maximum Grant: 5 million yen (minimum application amount: 500,000 yen).
• - Grant Rate: Up to 50% of eligible expenses.
• - Eligible Expenses: This includes costs related to product improvements like materials, machinery, and hiring specialists as well as costs for obtaining certifications.

Application Categories

• - Category 1: Product Improvement Projects - Focused solely on improving existing products.
• - Category 2: Certification Acquisition Projects - Concerned with gaining certifications, either alone or in conjunction with product improvements.
• - Category 3: Dual Focus Projects - For businesses looking to improve products while also pursuing certifications.

Application Period

Applications can be submitted electronically between September 7 and September 30 at 5 PM. For smooth processing, businesses should prepare ahead to obtain a GBiz ID Prime account, as approval may take time.

Resources and Assistance

For more detailed information regarding the requirements and application procedures, businesses are encouraged to visit the official website of the Tokyo Small and Medium Enterprise Support Center.

Contact Information

For inquiries regarding the program, businesses can reach out to the Support Center at (03) 3251-7894 or via email at [email protected]. The support hours are Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 12 PM, and 1 PM to 5 PM.

This initiative not only aims to develop individual businesses but also seeks to enhance the overall industrial vitality of Tokyo by ensuring that local products meet market demands and comply with essential standards.