#Japan #Tokyo #DX Promotion #AI Utilization

Supporting Tokyo's SMEs in DX Promotion and AI Utilization

In a progressive move aimed at uplifting small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Tokyo, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, together with the Tokyo SME Promotion Corporation, has announced a new initiative named the DX Promotion Total Support Project, which will officially begin in the fiscal year 2028. This initiative is set to bolster the productivity of SMEs and foster a competitive environment conducive to sustainable wage increases.

The project is comprehensive, offering various forms of support including the formulation of DX strategies and AI utilization plans, guidance from advisors, and financial assistance for the costs associated with the introduction and implementation of digital technologies. The aim is to provide robust support for SMEs on their journey towards digital transformation (DX).

Overview of the Project

The DX Promotion Total Support Project comprises four distinct courses, focusing on helping SMEs adopt and advance their digital capabilities. The program strives to facilitate the adoption of digital technologies, enhancing firms’ operational efficiencies and fostering innovative business models. Two of the courses particularly focus on promoting DX, while another aims to generate advanced examples of AI applications in the business context.

Advisor Dispatch Program

One of the central components of this initiative is the advisor dispatch program. A dedicated advisor will visit participating SMEs, where they will engage with them to identify current challenges. After diagnosing the firm's situation, the advisor will help outline a support plan tailored to the company's needs. This support encompasses everything from strategy development and technology introduction to ongoing assistance post-implementation.

Support Courses & Recruitment Details

1. DX Step-Up Course (20 companies sought)
- Focuses on formulating DX strategies aligned with the company's philosophy and vision.
- Offers training for management to cultivate a culture that leverages digital technologies.

2. DX Advance Course (10 companies sought)
- Designed for firms that already have established DX strategies (including companies with DX certifications).
- Directs support towards achieving DX goals, such as transforming business models and developing new services.

3. AI Utilization Course (10 companies sought)
- Assists in planning AI strategies, improves internal literacy, and supports the implementation of advanced AI technologies.

4. Productivity Enhancement Course (Application for this course will open in June and October)
- Dedicated to boosting business productivity through the introduction and application of digital technologies.

Support Eligibility

This initiative is primarily directed towards SMEs that have their main business operations based in Tokyo.

Financial Assistance

Alongside the advisory services, financial aid will be available for the costs associated with the digital technology implementations as proposed by the advisors. The assistance will be available for those SMEs that participate in the advisor dispatch program, helping them offset the expenses related to newfound digital practices.

Financial Aid Caps

• - DX Promotion Course: Up to 30 million yen, with a cap of 50 million yen for significant wage increases. Funding rate is three-fourths for regular cases.
• - AI Utilization Course: Up to 20 million yen, with a cap of 30 million yen for notable wage hikes, at a two-thirds funding rate.
• - Productivity Enhancement Course: Up to 15 million yen, and a cap of 20 million yen for significant wage rises, at a 50% funding rate.

Application Process

Businesses interested in this opportunity need to undergo a review process based on their application details. The opening application period runs from April 6 until May 8, 2028. All applications can be submitted through the designated portal site provided by the Tokyo SME Promotion Corporation.

Contact Information: For general inquiries about this initiative, contact the Economic and Labor Affairs Bureau at 03-5320-4791. For application-related questions, reach out to the Productivity Enhancement Support Section at 03-3251-7917.