Crossbit’s Rakushifu Approved for 2025 IT Subsidy Program in Japan

Crossbit's Rakushifu Receives IT Subsidy Certification

Crossbit, a company based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, and led by CEO Takaki Okubo, has achieved a significant milestone with its cloud shift management system, Rakushifu. Recently, Rakushifu has been recognized as an approved tool under the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry's 2025 IT Subsidy Program. This certification aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Japan by encouraging digital transformation (DX) through accessible IT tools.

Overview of the IT Subsidy Program

The IT Subsidy Program was initiated in 2017 as part of the government's initiative to enhance productivity among small and medium enterprises. The program provides financial assistance to eligible SMEs and small businesses, enabling them to implement IT tools that enhance operational efficiency and facilitate digital transformation. Businesses meeting specific criteria can receive subsidies for implementing these tools, with grants available up to 3.5 million yen. Additionally, cloud service usage fees may be covered for up to two years, significantly alleviating the financial burden for many businesses eager to adopt new technologies.

Addressing Labor Shortage through Shift Management

Japan's population has witnessed a decline, with estimates from the Ministry of Internal Affairs indicating a total population of 123.42 million as of March 1, 2025, which is a decrease of approximately 580,000 compared to the previous year. Notably, the population over 65 years old remains high at 36.18 million, with an increasing number of people over 75. This shift in demographics suggests a looming labor shortage, particularly among the working-age population. A recent survey by Teikoku Databank highlights that over 50% of companies report a shortage of regular employees, alongside 28.7% noting similar issues with non-regular staff, reflecting a widespread concern across various industries.

As labor shortages become increasingly serious, traditional shift management methods employing paper and Excel spreadsheets are proving inadequate. To ensure fairness, comply with labor regulations, and create flexible schedules that accommodate diverse work styles, transitioning to a cloud-based shift management system becomes essential. With the recent approval for the IT subsidy, Crossbit aims to expand the reach of Rakushifu to more SMEs, facilitating solutions to their operational challenges and ultimately enhancing productivity.

Eligibility for the Subsidy and Available Plans

The approved tool and plan for this subsidy program includes the basic functionalities of the Rakushifu cloud shift management system, available under an annual contract with a lump-sum payment. Eligible businesses must meet the necessary criteria for subsidy application, which encompasses various assessments and documentation. More details can be found on the official website of the IT Subsidy Program. (Source: IT Subsidy)

- Note: Additional features such as help request options and auto-generation options are currently being assessed separately. The eligibility criteria and subsidy amounts may vary based on individual business circumstances.

Contact for Inquiries

Businesses interested in implementing Rakushifu through the IT subsidy program are encouraged to reach out for further information or assistance with the application process. Crossbit is committed to providing support throughout this journey.

Crossbit's Mission and Services

In light of Japan's declining labor force, the growth of non-regular employment, and the rise of on-demand work, optimizing resource allocation has never been more crucial. The need for reduced management and operational workloads while automating various calculations is accelerating within the business landscape. Through the implementation of the cloud shift management tool Rakushifu, Crossbit strives to enhance efficiency in shift management, reduce labor costs, and contribute to overall productivity within organizations. Looking forward, they plan to integrate AI technologies to optimally allocate essential labor resources, further supporting businesses in their growth trajectories.

Key Features of Rakushifu

- Simple and quick recovery of preferred shifts and sharing confirmed shifts via LINE.
- Ability to establish labor restrictions for compliance with legal working hours, including settings for minors and foreign workers, with alerts preventing violations.
- Flexible customization suited to various industries and business types.
- Adjustable staffing levels according to demand to optimize labor costs and personnel allocation.

Learn more about Rakushifu and its offerings at Rakushifu Website. For inquiries or to request additional information, explore further details on the Rakushifu offerings.