Financial Support for Product Improvement and Certification in Tokyo

Funding for Product Enhancement and Certification in Tokyo

Recognizing the need for bolstering the capabilities of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Tokyo, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has launched a support program aimed at product improvement and certification. Starting from October 17, 2025, applications will be accepted for funding up to 5 million yen. The initiative primarily targets companies looking to enhance their products, secure necessary certifications, and explore new domestic and international markets.

Overview of the Support Program

The program focuses on assisting SMEs in modifying their existing products or developing prototypes that meet current market needs. It also encompasses funding for obtaining certifications, such as CE marking, ISO, and IEC standards. Notably, the certifications include significant standards in information security (ISO 27001), aerospace (JISQ9100), and food safety (HACCP).

Additionally, for the upcoming fiscal year 2025, there will be support from pricing strategy supporters to aid companies in improving their negotiation power.

Key Points of the Funding

1. Generous Funding Range: With a maximum of 5 million yen allocated for improvements, eligible costs include both personnel expenses and expenses related to product enhancement, such as user interface improvements and miniaturization. Furthermore, up to 3.5 million yen can be claimed for personnel costs specifically associated with software improvement processes.

2. International Market Readiness: The program also supports certifications necessary for entering international markets. By obtaining certifications like CE marking, UL & FCC certification, and IEC standards, companies can ensure compliance with regulations in foreign countries. Multiple certifications can be applied for simultaneously under a single product, simplifying the process.

3. Broad Certification Eligibility: The funding is not limited to just product improvements. Organizations can also apply for support solely for certification acquisition, which encompasses management system certifications such as ISO 9001 (Quality Management System) and ISO 27001 (Information Security Management System).

Ideal Candidates for This Program

Participants can select an application category that suits their needs:

- Application Category 1: For those who wish to focus solely on product improvement without the need for certification.
- Application Category 2: For organizations desiring only to secure certifications without any product modifications.
- Application Category 3: For those looking to improve products while obtaining necessary certifications—this option combines product enhancement with meeting certification requirements.

Funding Breakdown

- Maximum Grant Amount: Up to 5 million yen, with a minimum of 500,000 yen.
- Grant Rate: Covers up to 50% of the project costs.
- Eligible Expenses: Costs incurred for product modifications, compliance with standards and certifications, and personnel expenses involved in the project.

Applications can encompass various expenses, from raw materials to machine costs and even consulting fees for specialized guidance. Each application category has its respective timeframes and criteria for qualifying expenses.

Application Timeline

The application process will open on October 17, 2025, and will close on October 30, 2025, by 5 PM. Interested parties are encouraged to prepare early, especially for electronic submissions through the government's J-Grant system, for which a G-Biz ID Prime account is necessary.

Conclusion

This initiative not only represents an investment in the future of Tokyo's SMEs but also reflects a collective effort to enhance the local economy and international competitiveness. For further information or clarification, contacts are available through the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's website and designated assistance channels.

For details, visit the official website or contact the Tokyo SMEs Support Team.

Contact Information: Tokyo Metropolitan Government, SMEs Support Division. Phone: 03-3251-7894 Email: [email protected]