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#15 Tokyo’s Subsidy Programs for Foreign Businesses

(The contents of this article are based on information available as of January 2025.)


Tokyo is an exciting and dynamic city where business and innovation intersect, creating boundless opportunities for growth. Whether you are a startup, an established corporation, or a financial firm, the city offers unparalleled opportunities to thrive. To support foreign businesses in establishing and expanding their presence, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government provides a range of subsidy programs and assistance initiatives. These programs are designed to help businesses establish, expand, and integrate into Tokyo’s competitive market with ease.



✅ Why Set Up Your Business in Tokyo?

Why choose Tokyo as your next business hub? Here are the key advantages:


✔ Access to Top Talent and Partnerships: Numerous companies, universities, and research institutions provide ample opportunities for collaboration. ✔ Efficient Transportation: Tokyo’s world-class transit system minimizes commute times, and its international airports provide easy global access. ✔ Comprehensive Business Support: Business Concierge Tokyo serves as a one-stop service for everything from business planning to lifestyle support. ✔ Tailored Support for Financial Firms: Experts assist with company registration, financial licensing, and regulatory requirements. ✔ Disaster-Resilient Offices: Many office buildings in Tokyo are equipped with state-of-the-art seismic protection and backup power systems, ensuring business continuity. ✔ A Welcoming Environment for Expats: International schools and foreign-friendly neighborhoods make it easier for expatriates and their families to settle in comfortably.


⚠️ Considerations and Challenges


While Tokyo offers many advantages for foreign businesses, there are also factors to consider:


✔ High Living Costs: Office rents and housing can be expensive, and living spaces may be smaller compared to other regions. ✔ Distance to Key Locations: Businesses in industries such as hospitality may face logistical challenges if their target areas, such as Niseko or Hakuba, are far from Tokyo.



🏢 Business Concierge Tokyo: Your Local Partner

Business Concierge Tokyo, operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, helps foreign businesses set up and expand in Tokyo. It serves as a one-stop support center that provides expert guidance on everything from administrative procedures to local lifestyle tips. English-speaking staff are available to ensure smooth communication. It is advisable to make an appointment before visiting.


📍 Business Concierge Tokyo (Akasaka)

📞 Phone: +81-3-3582-8353


📍 Business Concierge Tokyo (Marunouchi)

📞 Phone: +81-3-6269-9981

📧 Financial support: financial-desk@bdc-tokyo.org


📌 Click here to view the Business Concierge Tokyo Leaflet



📌 Support Program for Foreign Entrepreneurs

Foreign nationals must obtain a Business Manager status of residence to establish a business in Japan. Under this visa:


✔ The applicant must open a physical office and either employ at least two full-time employees or invest at least 5 million yen in Japan before entering the country. ✔ A special six-month “Business Manager” visa allows foreign entrepreneurs to prepare for launching their business. ✔ If the necessary requirements are met, the six-month period can be extended by another year.


📌 Steps to Apply: 


1️⃣Schedule a consultation with Business Concierge Tokyo.

2️⃣Prepare required documents, including a business plan.

3️⃣Submit an application (in Japanese) to BDCT’s Akasaka Desk.

4️⃣Seek assistance from an administrative scrivener (行政書士: Gyōsei Shoshi) for accuracy.


For more details, please refer to Invest Tokyo - Business Manager Visa.



💰 Financial Support Programs for Foreign Firms

1️⃣One-Stop Financial Support Service

✔ Free English-speaking consultations available at Business Concierge Tokyo (Marunouchi). ✔ Assistance with company registration and financial licensing. ✔ Tip: Start early when applying for financial licenses!


2️⃣Temporary Office Space

✔ Discounted office rent for foreign firms conducting research before officially establishing operations. ✔ Offices in business hubs like Otemachi, Marunouchi, Yurakucho (“Daimaruyu”), and Minato City provide excellent networking opportunities.



3️⃣Green Finance Subsidy

✔ Covers expenses related to eco-friendly financial initiatives. ✔ Supports companies contributing to Tokyo’s sustainability goals.



4️⃣Establishment Subsidy

✔ Provides partial reimbursement for business setup costs. ✔ Requirements: Application must be submitted in Japanese. ✔ Support: Business Concierge Tokyo can guide you through the process.


📌 Click here for  Establishment Subsidy details


5️⃣Business Foundation Support Subsidy

✔ Supports already-established businesses in Tokyo looking to expand operations. ✔ Requirements: Application must be submitted in Japanese.



6️⃣English Guide to Financial Licenses

✔ An English-language guide, supervised by the Financial Services Agency, simplifies Japan’s financial regulations. ✔ Covers laws, registration procedures, and license requirements.


📌 Click here to view the Financial License Guide


7️⃣Networking Events

✔ Tokyo hosts 3 to 5 networking events annually. ✔ Great opportunities to connect with local and international businesses in the financial industry.



🚀 Conclusion

Tokyo is not just a city—it’s a gateway to limitless business opportunities. By leveraging the city’s resources and support programs, you can:


✅ Establish a strong foundation

✅ Grow your business

✅ Make a lasting impact in the global market


If you are ready to establish your business in Tokyo, reach out to Business Concierge Tokyo for expert guidance and support. Take advantage of the available programs and start building your presence in Japan today!


 

If you are considering expanding your business to Japan, please contact Quantum Accounting Inc. for a free consultation during the planning phase or general consultation (available in both English and Japanese). Quantum Accounting's professionals are experts in accounting, tax, legal, and labor issues. Our goal is to provide you with a one-stop professional firm for all the services you need to expand your business into Japan. We are confident that we can help you.


Please contact us for further information from here.


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