#Japan #Tokyo #Grant Program #SMEs

New Grant Program Announcement

The Tokyo Metropolitan Small and Medium Enterprise Support Center (TMSMESC) is excited to announce the opening of applications for its new grant program aimed at supporting the development of innovative products and technologies. Starting from May 9 and continuing until June 5, enterprises in Tokyo can apply for grants that cover a portion of their research and development costs, with the maximum amount available being 25 million yen.

What This Grant Program Offers

The primary goal of this initiative is to revitalize the Tokyo industrial sector by strengthening technological capabilities and encouraging exploration into new fields. For the fiscal year 2027, the program increases the ceiling for grants from 15 million yen to a maximum of 25 million yen, and businesses that create a wage increase plan can benefit from a higher grant rate.

Key Features

1. Substantial Grants Available: Up to 25 million yen in funding is offered, and even individuals planning to start a business can apply. There are no restrictions on the number of years a business has been in operation or the industry in which it operates.
2. Supports a Wide Range of Costs: Eligible expenses include machinery, tools, property rights applications, and more—all essential for developing new products and technologies.
3. Online Application: Applications will be processed through the national electronic application system, including necessary prior registration with a G Biz ID Prime account.

Eligible Research and Development

This grant program focuses on creating products and services, which can include:

• - Research and Development for Product Commercialization: This involves the design, production, and testing of prototypes for hardware or software that are aimed at commercialization.
• - Research and Development for New Service Creation: The program also funds prototype development for services that require innovative means through hardware or software.

Program Overview

• - Target Participants: Small and medium enterprises with significant business activities in Tokyo, including sole proprietorships and individuals planning to start a business.
• - Grant Period: From November 1, 2027, to July 31, 2029 (maximum duration of 1 year and 9 months).
• - Eligible Expenses: Include raw materials, machinery costs, outsourcing expenses, intellectual property applications, expert consultation fees, and direct labor costs.
• - Maximum Grant: 25 million yen, with a grant rate of up to half of the costs; this increases to up to 75% for eligible SMEs with wage increase plans.

Application Process

The application must be submitted through the J Grants online system only. The process involves several steps:

Step 1: Obtain a G Biz ID Prime Account

Expect initial delays in account approval from the government, so it's advisable to prepare well in advance.

Step 2: Prepare Application Documents

Download the program overview and application forms from the TMSMESC website. Carefully fill out the application form and prepare the necessary supporting documents.

Step 3: Submit Applications via J Grants

Electronic submissions will be accepted until June 5 at 17:00. No other methods of submission (mail, in-person delivery, email) will be accepted.

For further details, refer to the requirements outlined in the official announcement on the TMSMESC website: Tokyo Grant Program Details.

Business Introduction Video

For a brief on what this grant program can do for your business, check out our introductory video.

Contact Information

For any inquiries or clarification, please reach out to the corresponding department:
(Tokyo Metropolitan Small and Medium Enterprise Support Center)
Grant Office, New Product Assistance Division
Phone: 03-3251-7894
Email: shinseihin-josei@tokyo-kosha.or.jp

This initiative is an excellent opportunity for Tokyo’s SMEs to gain the necessary financial support to innovate and thrive in a competitive market.