#Japan #AI Agent #Nakano #LightUp #J-System

LightUp Expands Support for SMEs in Nakano City with the J-System

LightUp Corporation (stock code: 6580) has taken a significant step in enhancing the support system for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by officially launching the J-System in Nakano City, Tokyo. Starting June 23, 2025, this system will be made available through the Nakano City Industrial Promotion Center's website (here). This initiative represents a progressive move towards integrating advanced technology into local governance, with plans to introduce AI agent functionalities in the future.

Addressing Challenges for Local SMEs

The launch of the J-System comes as a solution to the pressing challenges that local governments face in supporting SMEs. Often, the existing procedures require substantial time and human resources to manage application processes for subsidies and grants, making it difficult for municipalities to provide adequate support. Consequently, many SMEs remain unaware of the assistance programs available to them, leading to missed opportunities for grants and subsidies.

To remedy this situation, LightUp has collaborated with Nakano City to develop the J-System, which will enhance the operational efficiency of both the government and the local business community. This system offers several functionalities designed to uplift the growth prospects of SMEs in the area.

Key Features of the J-System

1. Simplified Subsidy Diagnosis: Business owners can enter their company information to receive a tailored list of applicable subsidy programs, allowing them to identify suitable funding opportunities easily.

2. Management and Information Sharing: The system streamlines the way local governments can communicate updates on subsidy programs, making it easier for them to push out relevant information in real time.

3. Progress Monitoring: Officials can visualize and manage the application status of enterprises within the region, ensuring that no business falls through the cracks during the application process.

Further down the line, the systematic integration of AI capabilities is on the agenda. This includes:

• - AI-driven recommendations for applicable support programs based on company profiles.
• - Automation of documentation assistance to relieve the burden on business owners.
• - Instant-response chatbots for application queries, ensuring quick resolution of inquiries.
• - Automated notifications and tracking of communication between government and business.

By implementing these advanced functionalities, LightUp aims to reduce the administrative load on local authorities while enhancing the support structures for SMEs operating in Nakano.

Future Prospects

The introduction of the J-System in Nakano marks the 28th municipality to adopt this framework since its inception. Building on previous successes, the company plans to expand its partnerships with more local governments across Japan. Their mission encompasses themes of local revitalization, administrative digital transformation, and aiming for a profit-making ecosystem for all SMEs using AI technology to construct a comprehensive business support system.

For municipalities and businesses interested in similar solutions, LightUp is open for inquiries. You can check more about their innovations and releases here.

Chronological Rollout of J-System in Local Governments

LightUp has successfully partnered with various regional governments, and here is a timeline of these collaborations:

• - February 3, 2021: Shibuya City, Tokyo
• - July 19, 2021: Tsukuba City, Ibaraki Prefecture
• - August 12, 2021: Amami Oshima Setouchi Town, Kagoshima Prefecture
• - October 5, 2021: Gonohe Town, Aomori Prefecture
• - October 8, 2021: Mine City, Yamaguchi Prefecture
• - October 26, 2021: Kinokawa City, Wakayama Prefecture
• - Continue through ensuing municipalities up to October 1, 2024: Kita Ward, Tokyo

Through these partnerships, LightUp expresses its gratitude towards local governments that resonate with their vision, showcasing their commitment to improving SME outcomes nationwide.

Company Overview

LightUp Corporation, headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, is a leader in DX solutions aimed at enhancing the management capabilities of small businesses using AI. With a capital stock of approximately 3.863 billion yen, LightUp continues to develop innovative services to support entrepreneurial success.

For further questions and press inquiries, please contact:
Representatives: Matsuda, Kawakami
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