Tokyo's Innovation Grant Program for Zero Emission Initiatives
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has launched a new initiative to support the development of innovative businesses aimed at achieving a zero-emission society. This program, called the "Zero Emission Tokyo Innovation Promotion Project," encourages collaboration between small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and larger corporations through open innovation. Opening a door for significant financial support, the program will provide subsidies for product development, enhancements, proof of concept, and market expansion efforts.
Details of the Program
Application Period
- - From: June 12, 2025
- - To: November 14, 2025
Overview of Funding Categories
There are two main categories under this grant initiative:
1. Zero Emission Category
- - Funding Purpose: Targets development themes related to the "Zero Emission Tokyo Strategy Beyond Carbon Half," which includes the following seven fields:
1. Core energy from renewable sources
2. Expansion of zero-emission buildings
3. Promotion of zero-emission mobility
4. Hydrogen energy proliferation
5. Transition to a circular economy
6. Measures against fluorocarbons
7. Promotion of climate change adaptation
- - Support Duration: From April 1, 2026, for a maximum of three years
- - Maximum Subsidy Amount: Up to 1 billion yen
- - Subsidy Rate: Covers up to two-thirds of eligible expenses
- - Expected Number of Acceptances: 2 projects
- - Typical Application Motivations: Organizations aiming for long-term development of significant zero-emission technologies
2. University-Born Ventures & General Category
- - Funding Purpose: Open to innovative services and products across all sectors.
- - Support Duration: From April 1, 2026, for a maximum of two years
- - Maximum Subsidy Amount: Up to 300 million yen
- - Subsidy Rate: Covers up to one-half of eligible expenses
- - Expected Number of Acceptances: 2 projects total (combined for university ventures and general applicants)
- - Typical Application Motivations: Quick commercialization of innovative technologies.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply, companies must fulfill certain conditions:
1. As of June 1, 2025, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
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A: Have been in continuous operation for over one year and maintain a registered headquarters or branch in Tokyo.
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B: Startups founded in Tokyo that have been operational for less than one year must show plans to continue operations post-project completion.
2. At the time of application, the project must:
- Receive at least 25% of the total project cost from corporate partners within specific timelines related to both categories.
- Engage with corporate partners to gain access to routes to market, personnel, or brand support.
For other detailed requirements, please refer to the official guidelines:
Application Guidelines PDF
Informational Sessions and Networking Events
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government will host multiple information sessions to explain the initiative further. Interested parties can participate either in-person or via Zoom via registration.
Event Details:
Session One
- - Date: June 25, 2025
- - Location: Work Styling Tokyo Midtown
- - Registration URL: Registration Link
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Session Two
- - Date: July 16, 2025
- - Location: Work Styling Tokyo Midtown
- - Registration URL: Registration Link
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Session Three
- - Date: August 6, 2025
- - Format: Online on Zoom
- - Registration URL: Registration Link
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Later Sessions: Repeatedly at various dates through October 8, 2025, both in-person and online.
Networking Event
A networking event will be held to promote open innovation between SMEs and corporate partners, featuring talks by previously funded organizations.
- - Date: September 5, 2025
- - Location: Tokyo Midtown Conference
- - Registration URL: Registration Link
Conclusion
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government warmly invites innovative projects aimed at fostering a zero-emission economy. All interested parties are encouraged to explore this significant opportunity for funding and collaboration in their entrepreneurial pursuits.
For more information, please visit:
Contact Information
Innovation Promotion Project Office
Japan Research Institute Co., Ltd.,
2-18-1 Higashi Gotanda, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, 141-0022
Phone: 03-6896-1624
Email: info@zeroemiinnovation.tokyo