#Japan #Tokyo #Women's Empowerment #Non-Regular Workers

Empowering Non-Regular Workers in Tokyo

Tokyo is making significant strides towards addressing workforce shortages and promoting corporate growth by focusing on the advancement of non-regular employees. Currently, around 40% of Japan's workforce comprises non-regular workers, with women representing approximately 70% of this group. This statistic underscores the necessity of enhancing the work conditions and treatment of non-regular employees, which is closely linked to advancing the role and empowerment of women in the workplace.

Support Initiatives for Non-Regular Employees and Women's Empowerment

Enhancing the sense of recognition and expectation among non-regular workers is essential for boosting their motivation and productivity. Such improvements lead to not only increased individual motivation but also contribute to a more stable workforce and overall company growth. To facilitate these changes, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has initiated the “FY 2024 Gender Wage Gap Improvement Incentive,” which offers grants of up to 1 million yen. Eligible applications for this incentive commenced on January 1, 2026, focusing on initiatives that support both non-regular workers and women’s empowerment simultaneously.

Specific Initiatives Eligible for Grants

1. Creation of Management Roles for Non-Regular Employees
- Example: Establishing a new role for part-time leaders to supervise part-time staff, allowing capable female part-time employees to take on leadership positions.

2. Implementation of Retirement Benefit Systems for Non-Regular Employees
- Example 1: Adapting the retirement benefits system for part-time employees to mirror that of full-time workers, with necessary adjustments made to employment regulations filed with the Labor Standards Inspection Office.
- Example 2: Even in cases where no retirement benefits were previously available, a decision was made to introduce a new retirement benefit scheme applicable to both full-time and part-time employees, with changes filed accordingly.

Utilization of Small Business Retirement Plans

Small business retirement mutual aid plans offer an accessible option to create a reliable and advantageous retirement benefit system. New business owners opting in can receive half of the monthly premium (up to 5,000 yen) subsidized by the government for one year starting from the fourth month after joining. Additional incentives apply for part-time workers, enhancing support further.

Promoting a Workforce of Non-Regular Employees

By implementing these initiatives, non-regular workers are increasingly viewed as valuable assets to the company, while clearly demonstrating recognition and expectations towards women's contributions. As employees feel their jobs are acknowledged and impactful, it fosters greater motivation, which is vital for addressing workforce shortages and driving corporate success.

Ongoing Support from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government

The incentive program provides free, comprehensive support for businesses during the implementation process, including help with issue organization and financial aid application methods.

• - Free Online Seminars:

The seminars cover the basics of the Women’s Empowerment Act, successful case studies from other companies, and detailed instructions for applying for the incentives.

• - Expert Guidance:

Participating businesses will receive free consultation and advice from professionals such as labor consultants and business advisors.

The online seminars will showcase successful initiatives by companies that have established roles like part-time leaders and invested in developing talent among non-regular employees.

Benefits Associated with the Program

Small enterprises that secure funding through this program become eligible for the Tokyo Women’s Business Support Loan, which offers a two-thirds subsidy for credit guarantee fees and interest rate discounts. For further details, please visit Tokyo Business Support.

Important Information Regarding the Incentive Program

• - Application Limit and Deadlines: The fifth round of grant applications will accept the first 80 companies until February 28, 2026.
• - Eligibility Criteria:

- Companies must have their head office or main business location in Tokyo.
- They should employ no more than 300 workers.
- The female proportion in the targeted employment category must not fall below 40% at the application time.

There are additional criteria and more details available on our official website or in the application guidelines.

For inquiries, contact:
2024 Gender Wage Gap Improvement Incentive Office
TEL: 03-6633-3656 (Weekdays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding holidays)
HP: Tokyo Women's Empowerment

Join our efforts in creating empowering workplaces that uplift non-regular workers and promote women's advancement.